Legendary Cyclist Ellen van Dijk Announces Her Retirement

Renowned cyclist Ellen van Dijk from the Netherlands has announced her retirement at the end of this season, citing increasing concerns over dangerous crashes as a key factor influencing her decision.

Van Dijk, a 38-year-old veteran of the sport, has enjoyed a remarkable career, clinching 70 race victories across various categories. Her achievements include three individual world time trial titles, as many team titles in the same discipline, a world title in the scratch race category, five European titles, and a solo victory in the Tour of Flanders spanning 139 kilometers.

Despite her formidable success, Van Dijk admitted that recent crashes have eroded her passion for road racing. Expressing appreciation for her team, she highlighted Lidl-Trek's unwavering support for women's cycling and praised their efforts in promoting the sport. "Trek always believed in women's cycling and invested heavily in it," she said.

(With inputs from agencies.)