In a surprising turn of events, another professional cyclist has decided to hang up their racing wheels at the tender age of 27. Michel Ries, who rode for Arkéa - B&B Hotels, is making headlines with his retirement announcement, highlighting a growing trend in the world of pro cycling where younger athletes are calling it quits sooner than expected.
"After spending numerous years on my bike — beginning with my initial races at UC Dippach, progressing steadily with the Kometa Cycling Team, and ultimately fulfilling my lifelong dream of competing in the WorldTour with Trek and Arkéa — I believe the time has come to bid farewell to my professional cycling career," Ries expressed in a heartfelt message shared on Instagram. He reflected on his journey, stating, "This adventure has taken me much further than I ever imagined when I first started. I had the honor to ride in Grand Tours, compete in some of the most prestigious Monuments, and represent my country at the Tokyo Olympic Games. These are experiences I will cherish forever."
Ries stepped into the professional realm in 2019 with the Kometa Cycling Team, which later evolved into what we now know as Team Polti VisitMalta. Prior to that, he had a stint as a trainee with Lidl-Trek. His ascent through the ranks was marked by impressive climbing skills, evidenced by his victory at the Giro della Valle d'Aosta and near wins at the Tour de l'Avenir, where he finished second on two occasions.
Despite his promising start, Ries struggled to meet the expectations set during his two-year tenure with the American team. In 2022, he made the decision to return to ProTeam level with Team Arkéa Samsic, which subsequently advanced to the WorldTour level a year later. Throughout his career, the cyclist participated in the Giro d'Italia and the Vuelta a España on three separate occasions.
Reflecting on his journey, Ries shared, "Cycling has provided me with lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and also many challenges. There were sacrifices, injuries, moments of self-doubt, pain, and tough days — yet I always poured my heart and soul into this sport. As I step away, I do so without regrets, only with gratitude and a treasure trove of memories. I couldn’t have achieved this alone; my sincere thanks go to the FSCL, COSL, LIHPS, Gary and Altus Sports, and everyone who believed in me and supported my path."
The announcement of Ries's retirement comes on the heels of Simon Yates's sudden departure from the sport, further underscoring the heightened pressures within pro cycling that are increasingly leading athletes to retire at a young age.
"A special appreciation goes to my family and friends for their unwavering support and faith in me. I'm also grateful to all my teammates over the years for the countless moments we shared on the road. With this chapter closing, another exciting one begins, filled with new possibilities. Thank you to everyone who was part of this incredible journey."
Michel Ries, seen here at the 2025 Giro d'Italia, reminds us of the emotional rollercoaster that is professional cycling.
