Ion Izagirre, the 37-year-old Basque cyclist from Ormaiztegi, has concluded his 16-season professional cycling career, marking the end of a journey that saw him claim victories in major races and navigate the physical and emotional challenges of elite sport. The Guipúzcoa native competed in the Lombardy race, despite a recent wrist fracture, as part of his final season, according to diariovasco.com.
The Final Ride: Lombardy and the Fight to Finish
Ten days before the event, he suffered a radial fracture in a crash, which initially cast doubt on his ability to compete. “We had many doubts because only ten days had passed since the fracture,” he said, reflecting on the decision to race. “But I didn’t want to accept it. We did everything possible to be on the start line and say goodbye on the bike.” With the support of physiotherapists and medical staff, he competed using a wrist brace, acknowledging it was “not the best way” but a choice he made to honor his career.
Career Highlights: A Legacy of Consistency and Triumph
Izagirre’s career spanned 16 seasons, during which he became a consistent presence in the peloton. His achievements include winning the 2019 Itzulia Basque Country, a home victory that held deep personal significance. “Winning the general classification of the Itzulia in 2019, at home and in front of my people, was one of the most special moments of my career,” he said. He also secured stage wins in the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España, cementing his reputation as a versatile and tenacious rider.
His career was not without setbacks. A 2017 crash at the Tour de France led to a prolonged recovery and self-doubt. “That fall affected me a lot. I had a long and slow recovery, and I questioned whether I would be the same again,” he recalled. Yet, he rebounded, demonstrating the mental and physical resilience that defined his professional life.
The Shift to Family: A New Chapter
For Izagirre, the decision to retire was deeply personal. “The biggest change will be being at home,” he said. “When you don’t have a family, you’re not as aware of it, but when you have children, you realize how quickly they grow. You miss a lot, and for them, it’s important to have you in their daily lives.” This focus on family marked a shift in his priorities, as he moved away from the demands of training camps, races, and the pressure of performance.
His plans post-retirement include spending more time with his wife and daughters, a goal he emphasized as central to his decision. “It’s another stage of my life, different and beautiful: being with my family and seeing my daughters grow,” he said. While he ruled out a future in team management, he expressed a desire to enjoy a life free from the constraints of professional cycling. “I want to enjoy life without obligations, without having to train, take care of myself, or attend training camps. I want to go out with friends whenever I want and enjoy it differently,” he added.
Reflections on a Changing Sport
Izagirre observed significant changes in cycling over his career, particularly in technology and training methods. “The research and material improvements have changed a lot,” he noted. “Training has also evolved, with new studies, though the basics—training, intensity, altitude camps—remain the same.” He credited these advancements for the sport’s increasing speed and record-breaking performances.
On a personal level, he reflected on his growth as a rider. “After 17 years as a professional, I’ve learned to distinguish what works and what doesn’t. New training and nutrition methods emerge, but not all suit every cyclist. Over time, you mature and discover what works best for you,” he said.
Legacy and Influence
Izagirre’s career was shaped by his peers and mentors. He praised Alejandro Valverde as a “splendid” rider who “always finished the work when you were his gregario.” He also highlighted Tadej Pogacar’s “multi-disciplinary” talent, noting the Slovenian’s ability to excel in any terrain. “When you’re in the peloton, you realize the watts he moves,” Izagirre said.
Among the cross-country organizers are my father, my brother, and many friends. It’s closing a circle and saying goodbye where it all began,” he said.
What’s Next for Izagirre?
Being a sports director means spending many days away from home. Now, I want to enjoy life without obligations,” he said. His immediate focus remains on family and personal well-being.
For young cyclists, his advice is simple: “Enjoy it. Many get obsessed with coaches and nutritionists. Everyone has their own evolution. It’s important to progress gradually, balance it with studies, and enjoy the lower categories.”
FAQ: Key Questions About Izagirre’s Retirement
Why did he retire? Izagirre cited a desire to prioritize family, stating that his focus on spending time with his wife and daughters was a central factor in his decision to step away from professional cycling.
