Reigning Giro d'Italia champion Simon Yates has made a surprising decision to retire from professional cycling at 33, Visma-Lease a Bike announced on Wednesday.
After 13 years at the top level that saw him win two Grand Tours, 10 GT stages, and 36 professional races, the British rider has called time on his successful career with "deep pride and a sense of peace."
"Dear all, I have made the decision to retire from professional cycling. This may come as a surprise to many, but it is not a decision I have made lightly," said Yates in the shock announcement on social media.
"I have been thinking about it for a long time, and it now feels like the right moment to step away from the sport."
