In a heartfelt announcement, former Tour de France runner-up and multiple Grand Tour champion Nairo Quintana confirmed on Sunday that he will retire from professional cycling at the end of this season. The 36-year-old rider for Movistar Team made the declaration during a press conference in Barcelona, coinciding with the start of the Volta a Catalunya, a race he previously won in 2016. This year’s Vuelta a España will mark his final competitive appearance.
Quintana’s illustrious career is highlighted by significant victories, including the 2014 Giro d’Italia—marking Colombia’s first win in that prestigious race—and the 2016 Vuelta a España. He also boasts two podium finishes in the Tour de France and a total of 54 career victories, encompassing two editions of the Tirreno-Adriatico and the Itzulia Basque Country, as well as multiple stage wins across all three Grand Tours.
“I desire to say: it is over. It is all over. And I am going home to my family,” Quintana expressed in Spanish, framing his retirement as a “grand celebration” rather than merely an end to his career. Reflecting on his journey, he noted, “I learned that this wasn’t just a sport. It was a way of life—lived step by step, without rushing the process.” He emphasized that his achievements were not solely his own but belonged to an entire continent and his homeland.
A Legacy of Triumphs
Quintana’s rise in cycling began early, with his first major success coming in the 2011 Volta a Catalunya, where he secured the mountains classification title. His career took off when he joined Movistar in 2012, quickly establishing himself as a formidable climber capable of challenging the dominant Team Sky in various stage races, including the Critérium du Dauphiné.
His breakout year was 2013, where he became a major contender in the Tour de France, finishing second overall behind Chris Froome. Quintana’s tactical prowess and climbing ability earned him a reputation as a top stage racer, culminating in a controversial victory in the 2014 Giro d’Italia.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite his success, Quintana’s career has not been without setbacks. A significant blemish came in 2022 when he tested positive for Tramadol, leading to his disqualification from that year’s Tour de France and his departure from Arkéa-Samsic. Although he did not face a suspension, the incident forced him to take a hiatus in 2023, during which he refrained from high-level racing. In 2024, he returned to Movistar, where he aimed to conclude his career on a high note.
Throughout his career, Quintana has been noted for his contributions beyond the bike, engaging in social and human rights activism, particularly in South America. His legacy not only includes his race victories but also his efforts to uplift communities and inspire youth through sports.
Looking Ahead
As Quintana prepares for his final season, he aims to make each remaining race a celebration of his journey. “I am not speaking of a farewell; I am speaking of a beginning—a new beginning where I want to continue building, creating businesses, opening up opportunities, supporting both competitive and recreational sports, and giving back to the people—especially the youth,” he concluded.
Quintana is expected to depart an enduring impact on the sport and his community. As he embarks on this new chapter, fans and fellow athletes alike will be watching closely to see how he continues to influence the world of cycling and beyond.
For more updates on Nairo Quintana’s final season and his future endeavors, stay tuned as the cycling community bids farewell to one of its most beloved figures.
