Belgian World Tour ends cycling career - Intermarché - Wanty's sixth retirement after team merger

Intermarché - Wanty came to an end in 2025 and now there are six riders that have confirmed their retirement from the sport. The latest is Gijs van Hoecke, a Belgian classics rider who turned pro in 2012 and has now decided to call it a day in the peloton. 

Perhaps not by his own choice, as this was announced after January and after the start to 2026. Van Hoecke, 34, was not able to find a contract. He was part of the Intermarché - Wanty team but was not part of the team's plans for the 2026 merger. Several riders could only be announced in late 2025, and in Louis Barré's case, his transfer to Visma could only be made public when 2026 started. Several riders at the top level remain without a contract for this upcoming season. 

After Louis Meintjes, Adrien Petit, Simone Petilli, Tom Paquot and most recently Kobe Goossens, van Hoecke is the sixth rider from Intermarché to end his career. Dion Smith, Kevin Colleoni and Gerben Kuypers are also still without a contract - although the latter actively races in cyclocross where he has a contract with Pauwels Sauzen - Altez Industriebouw. 

"After 14 years of living the life of a professional cyclist, it’s time to close this chapter," van Hoecke said in an Instagram post. Whilst he hasn't taken a pro win, he has spent many years at World Tour level, racing for teams such as Visma, CCC, AG2R and in his final two years as a pro: Intermarché - Wanty. In the early years of his career, he has conquered a world title on the track in the Madison event with Kenny de Ketele. 

"I’ve always enjoyed every moment, gave everything I had, and lived my greatest passion: cycling. Thank you to everyone who supported me along the way - family, friends, teammates, staff and fans! I step away with a great sense of fulfillment, and cycling will always remain a part of my life. I look back with gratitude and satisfaction, and I’m motivated to embrace a new challenge — one I will pursue with the same commitment and passion".