LONDON (AP) — British cyclist Simon Yates announced his immediate retirement on Wednesday, ending a career that included overall wins at Spain’s Vuelta a España and last year’s Giro d’Italia and a stage win at the Tour de France.
“This may come as a surprise to a lot of people, but it’s not a decision I made lightly,” Yates, 33, said in a statement released by Team Visma-Lease a Bike. “I’ve been thinking about it for a long time and now feels like the right time to leave the sport.”
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Yates won the Vuelta a España in 2018, his first Grand Tour title, cementing Britain’s dominance of cycling at the time. That same year, Geraint Thomas won the Tour de France and Chris Froome won the Giro d’Italia.
Seven years later, Yates easily won the Giro d’Italia, calling it “the defining moment of my career.”
His best result at the Tour de France was fourth in 2023.
“I am deeply proud of what I have accomplished and grateful for the lessons that have come with it,” Yates said. “While the wins are always noticeable, the hard days and setbacks are just as important. They have taught me resilience and patience, making success more meaningful.”
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