Cycling: The Spanish professional Joaquim Rodriguez (Katusha) will end his career at the end of 2016. As the 37-year-old announced at a press conference today on the rest day of the Tour de France, he would like to draw a line under his active career as long as he is still able to ride at the front. Rodriguez was part of the pro peloton for 17 years.
One of the great constants in the cycling world will say goodbye to the big stage at the end of the season. Joaquim Rodriguez hung up his cycling shoes at the end of 2016, ending his 17-year career. “2016 will be my last year as a pro. I still love this sport so much but I'm 37. One day I will have to retire and I want to do so while I can still ride at a high level." said the climbing specialist in his hometown Andorra La Vella in the morning. Family was also a key reason for his decision. "They deserve that I spend more time with them. They have always supported me and now it is time for me to support them.”
However, the three-time Tour stage winner still has big goals for his final season. "2016 is a really special year - the Tour de France is coming to my home country of Andorra and also the Rio Olympics are being held on a course that suits me very well." A farewell medal at the Olympics – that would be the culmination of a great career. "I'll give everything I've got to do my entire career" assured Rodriguez. He also still has goals on the Tour, where he is currently 37th overall, 5 seconds behind leader Chris Froome. "I would be happy with a place in the top 10, but I still dream of another podium in Paris." the old master continues.
Rodriguez has no plans for his further future - but he doesn't want to think that far at the moment. "2016 is not over yet," he said goodbye with a mischievous grin on his face.