As the sun set on the picturesque landscape of the Tour de Vendée this past Sunday, a legendary chapter came to a close.
Peter Sagan announced earlier this year, on his 33rd birthday, that this would be his final season on the road, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the annals of professional cycling.
The Slovakian sensation is not fading into obscurity, though, as he charts a new course in mountain biking with his sights set on the Paris 2024 Olympics.
“It was never my aspiration to compete professionally until my 40s or 50s. I believe it’s the right time now. And if I can conclude my career at the Paris Olympics, that would be a wonderful accomplishment for me.”
“And there’s Marlon,” Sagan told Rouleur, speaking of his son. “I’ve missed out on so much time with him these past five years, constantly in and out. It’s crucial for me to cherish moments and experience life from a fresh perspective, beyond just my role as a cyclist.”
The past few seasons have been a rollercoaster for Sagan.
Despite facing health challenges and periods of misfortune with the French team TotalEnergies, the broader picture of his career remains breathtaking.
Sagan, often referred to as the rockstar of the peloton, leaves behind a staggering list of achievements, a charismatic presence sorely missed, and an indelible mark on the cycling universe.
A Phenomenal Palmares
With 121 professional victories to his name, including an unprecedented three consecutive World Championships, stage wins in all three Grand Tours, one Paris-Roubaix, one Tour of Flanders, and seven Green Jerseys at the Tour de France (a record-breaking feat), the list of his accolades seems endless.
Detailing Peter Sagan’s victories alone would take considerable time, a testament to his dominance over the years.
Return To Mountain Biking
In recent years, Sagan’s winning streak has slowed, and the joy of road cycling has diminished. The year 2023 marks the first time that the man with 121 victories to his name has failed to secure a single win.
Sagan embarks on a new chapter, returning to his roots in mountain biking, where he first gained fame. Sagan clinched the junior world mountain biking title at 18 in 2008, preceding his road racing career.
The goal? A return to the Olympic stage in the discipline of cross-country.
This wouldn’t be his first rendezvous with mountain biking at the Olympics. Fans might recall the Rio Olympics, where, after a promising start, a puncture derailed his hopes of a medal, finishing 35th.
“I always said I wanted to wrap up my career on a mountain bike, where it all began. It brings me joy in my final chapter because I’m indulging in something I truly love.”
“When I was younger, I could switch between mountain biking and road cycling. Then, Liquigas offered me a chance to turn pro in road cycling. Did I accept right away? Well, back then, it was an easy call. Road cycling was well-established.”
“I figured if it didn’t pan out on the road, I could always return to mountain biking. It turned out to be the right decision, but mountain biking has always stayed close to my heart.”
In 2022, he raced in the cross-country World Championships, finishing 16th. This summer, he competed again in the World Championships, securing the 37th spot in the cross-country short circuit and the 63rd in the cross-country Olympic heats.
We can only hope for more success for the man who has brought smiles to the peloton and fans alike for 14 remarkable years.
“I’m Full Of Gratitude For Peter”
“Alright, I’ve had a chance to process the news,” Italian cyclist Daniel Oss remarked. He and Sagan were former teammates on the Cannondale team and had raced together extensively.
“It was a decision that took some time, and he considered it day by day, but it’s final now. I can see the happiness in his eyes these past few days, and that makes me happy too.”
“Peter Sagan Is One Of My Idols”
“I’m still his fan, not only because he’s a three-time world champion, but because he’s Peter Sagan,” Tom Pidcock said.
Peter Sagan may have ended his road cycling career, but his legend lives on.
His unique charisma, versatility, and undeniable talent have left an indelible mark on the sport, ensuring that he remains a timeless icon.
From his cheeky victory celebrations to his candid interviews, Sagan has been a breath of fresh air in the often-serious world of professional cycling.
We want to hear from you!
What’s your favorite moment in Sagan’s storied career?
Do you think another rider will ever be able to beat his records of three straight World Championships? Do you see any successor in the current sprinters to reach seven Green Jerseys at the Tour de France?
And can Peter Sagan secure a medal in Paris 2024?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
