Nairo Quintana Announces Retirement

Nairo Quintana will retire at the end of the 2026 season, ending a 17-year career.

What prompted the decision?

Quintana turned 36 in February and has decided to call it a career. He became one of the sport's most recognizable figures thanks to his calm demeanor and Grand Tour success.

Career highlights

Nairo Quintana won the Giro d'Italia in 2014 and the Vuelta a España in 2016. He finished second at the Tour de France in 2013 and 2015 and third in 2016.

Final races

Quintana will compete in his final races, including the Volta a Catalunya. "This is my last season as a professional cyclist and every race will be a last dance," Quintana said. He has competed in 20 Grand Tours during his career and was often a key rival to Team Sky.

Legacy

Nairo Quintana's retirement marks the end of an era for the sport. He will be remembered for his impressive career and Grand Tour successes. Quintana's current one-year contract extension will be his final season in the peloton. And he will look to make the most of his final races. But his legacy will live on in the sport. So he will always be remembered as one of the greats.