British cycling star Simon Yates stunned the sport on January 7, 2026, by announcing his immediate retirement at age 33. The two-time Grand Tour winner leaves professional road racing on a high, fresh from clinching the 2025 Giro d’Italia and a stage victory at the Tour de France. Yates reflected on his decision with contentment, stating he steps away with “deep pride and a sense of peace” after achieving lifelong ambitions.
Pinnacle Achievements in 2025
Yates’s final season proved his finest. Joining Visma-Lease a Bike on a two-year contract before 2025, he thrived in the Dutch squad’s structure. His Giro triumph—secured with a commanding performance on the penultimate stage—marked sweet redemption after near-misses in previous editions.
Team head of racing Grischa Niermann praised the Briton’s impact: “Winning the Giro d’Italia was one of the major goals of the season, for us as a team and for Simon personally. The fact that he also went on to win a stage in the Tour de France underlines his class.”
These successes added to an already impressive palmarès, cementing Yates’s status among the peloton’s elite climbers and stage hunters.
Career Highlights and Grand Tour Success
Yates burst onto the WorldTour scene alongside twin brother Adam in 2014 with Australian outfit Orica-GreenEdge (now Jayco AlUla). Early promise blossomed into consistent excellence.
His breakthrough came in 2018 with overall victory at the Vuelta a España—Britain’s dominant era in Grand Tours continued. Stage wins followed across all three majors: six at the Giro d’Italia, three at the Tour de France, and two at the Vuelta.
Over 30 professional victories underscore his versatility, from punishing mountain finishes to punchy classics.
| Major Achievement | Year | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Vuelta a España Overall Win | 2018 | First Grand Tour title |
| Giro d’Italia Overall Win | 2025 | Redemption victory in final professional season |
| Tour de France Stage Wins | Multiple (including 2025) | Three career stages |
| Giro d’Italia Stage Wins | Multiple | Six career stages |
| Professional Debut | 2014 | With Orica-GreenEdge (Jayco AlUla) |
The Yates Twins Phenomenon
Simon and Adam Yates emerged as a formidable duo, often supporting each other while pursuing individual glory. Born in Bury, Greater Manchester, their shared journey from junior ranks to WorldTour stars inspired countless British riders.
While Adam continues with UAE Team Emirates, Simon’s departure marks the end of an era for the siblings’ parallel careers.
Reaction from the Cycling World
Visma-Lease a Bike expressed disappointment but respect for Yates’s choice, noting he retires “at an absolute high point.” Fans and peers alike celebrated his contributions, highlighting his sportsmanship and climbing prowess.
Pundits described the timing as surprising yet understandable—exiting after fulfilling major objectives on his terms.
Why Now?
Yates’s statement emphasised personal fulfilment over prolonged competition. Having conquered remaining goals with Visma-Lease a Bike, he chose family time and new chapters outside the intense professional peloton.
In an era of ever-extending careers, his decision underscores the physical and mental demands of elite cycling.
Legacy and Impact
Simon Yates retires as one of Britain’s most decorated modern road cyclists. His Grand Tour triumphs, stage-hunting flair, and role in elevating British cycling ensure enduring influence.
Young riders will draw inspiration from his journey: from promising debutant to double Grand Tour champion. As the peloton prepares for 2026, Yates’s absence will be felt—but his achievements will resonate for years.
