Geraint Thomas announces retirement: 2018 Tour de France winner to bow out at end of 2025 season

Geraint Thomas has confirmed that 2025 will be his final year in the professional peloton, bringing an end to a 19-year career that has seen him claim some of the sport’s biggest honours. The Welshman announced his decision on social media, writing: “It was time to make it official. Yes, this will be my last year in the peloton. It hasn’t been bad, has it? Even in my wildest dreams, I never imagined I’d be a pro for 19 years. There’ll be plenty of time for reflection later, but for now, I’ve still got some big races to prepare for.”

Thomas, now 38, has spent the majority of his career with INEOS Grenadiers, having joined the team when it was still Team Sky in 2010. His tenure with the squad saw him evolve from a key domestique into a Grand Tour contender, ultimately securing his most prestigious victory at the 2018 Tour de France. He also boasts wins at Paris-Nice, Critérium du Dauphiné, Tour de Romandie, and the Tour de Suisse, cementing his place as one of Britain’s greatest stage racers.

Before his success on the road, Thomas was a decorated track cyclist, winning Olympic gold in the team pursuit at both the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Games. He also secured multiple world titles and set world records with the British squad.

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British Cycling pays tribute

British Cycling Performance Director Stephen Park CBE paid tribute to Thomas’ contribution to the sport: “On behalf of British Cycling, I want to congratulate Geraint on an outstanding career. His 2018 Tour de France win will always be remembered as the first time a Welshman claimed the sport’s biggest prize. He’s been an inspiration to so many and a role model for the next generation of cyclists.”

Park highlighted Thomas’ early days as a promising junior with the Maindy Flyers in Cardiff, where he developed into one of Britain’s top talents. “Geraint has been a key figurehead in every team he’s ridden for, both on the road and the track. His pride in the jersey and his unwavering commitment to being the best version of himself are qualities that have defined his career.”

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What’s next for Thomas?

Thomas is set to begin his farewell season at the Volta ao Algarve before heading to Tirreno-Adriatico. The rest of his 2025 race schedule is yet to be confirmed, but it has been suggested that the Tour de France could be his final Grand Tour. His final race is expected to be the Tour of Britain in September.

Reflecting on his career, Thomas acknowledged the significance of his Tour de France triumph but also took pride in his role as a team player. “Winning the Tour was special, but I’ve always enjoyed being part of a team, helping others succeed and just loving racing my bike.”

Intriguingly, there’s even been a tease about doing Strictly Come Dancing in the upcoming years, joining the likes of Victoria Pendleton and Jody Cundy as cyclists who’ve taken part in the BBC programme.

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