Norwegian rider Malin Eriksen has quietly stepped away from the sport after more than a decade in the peloton, confirming her retirement with a heartfelt message on Instagram. The 2022 national road race champion reflected on her long career, acknowledging the difficult process of coming to terms with unfinished ambitions.
Eiksen said: ‘A long overdue text, but I just haven’t felt ready for writing this previously. Many things have happened over the past year, leading to my decision to not continue cycling. I could list so many things, but overall the lack of feeling accomplishment was an important factor.
I have had similar periods previously and to make the final decision to stop the development when you know you could have shown more, is the bitter feeling I have worked to overcome. It is perhaps the hardest decision I have made in my life, and I will never forget the highs I had with so many great people. I have done this since I was 13 and there is such a huge number of experiences and people I will always bring with me in my heart. I will always be grateful. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey.’
A consistent presence in the Continental circuit, Eriksen developed through the Keukens Redant Cycling Team, where she rode from 2018 through to 2022. Her most notable victory came in 2022 when she claimed the Norwegian national road race title, marking a career highlight with the elite jersey. She also clocked up top-10 finishes at races like the Tour de l’Ardèche, Ladies Tour of Estonia, Princess Anna Vasa Tour, and Tour of Uppsala.
Eriksen’s retirement post sparked a warm response from the cycling community, with tributes pouring in from former teammates and friends.
Also retired Norwegian rider Stine Borgli commented:
So many great pictures; what a journey you’ve had Malin. And how lucky I am to have been part of it. Thanks for all the wonderful experiences and memories together on the bike journey! You’re always so positive and happy, and it made the trips even nicer for us. You’re a great role model.
Camilla Rånes Bye added:
You have inspired me so much! Learned a lot from you and it’s been so much fun to be on a trip with you.
Sigrid Ytterhus Haugset said:
So happy that I’ve had so many trips with you. Looking forward to visiting your home.
