Professional bicycle racer, victorious in the Tour de France at the age of 29, contemplates retirement and potential cheesemaking venture in Japan.
In the world of professional cycling, Victor Lafay, the stage winner of both the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia, has expressed a potential shift in his career. Lafay, currently a rider for Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale, has been involved in the sport since he was just five years old. However, at the age of 29, he acknowledges the changes in cycling over the years.
Lafay has had an impressive career, with memorable wins such as the stage in San Sébastián during the 2023 Tour de France and stage eight of the Giro d'Italia in Guardia Sanframondi in 2021. Yet, recent seasons have been challenging for Lafay, who has been sick and unable to reach his top form.
Despite this, Lafay has not decided yet on whether he will race again in 2026. He has revealed his retirement thoughts to journalist Daniel Benson at the Tour of Britain Men. Lafay expresses an enthusiasm for a life outside of cycling and mentions having several ideas for work after his cycling career.
One of those ideas is selling cheese in Japan. Lafay has expressed an interest in this venture due to his love for cheese. This desire to travel and truly enjoy his experiences, rather than just passing through countries, is a clear indication of Lafay's ambitions post-cycling.
Another professional cyclist, Ide Schelling, has already announced his retirement this year. Schelling, who can't match the high level of the peloton these days, is stepping off the bike.
Lafay, however, is not the only cyclist considering a change. He has mentioned that he has been considering what he would do after cycling, and he is interested in pursuing other sports. There are no publicly available details about Lafay's plans after potentially ending his professional cycling career in 2026.
Since his move to Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale, Lafay has raced 60 times, but no renewal offer has been forthcoming from his current team. This could potentially be a factor in Lafay's contemplation of retirement.
As Lafay navigates this significant decision, one thing is clear: his love for cycling and his passion for adventure remain undiminished. Whether he continues to race or pursues a new path, his impact on the sport will be remembered.
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