Could Thibau Pinot postpone retirement? "The only possibility for me to continue would be to be champion of France"

Thibaut Pinot's retirement announcement did not come as a huge shock, but did come as a hard hit to take for many cycling fans. However the Frenchman may continue his career beyond 2023, under specific circumstances he revealed.

"For the little anecdote, I made a bet with some team mates, Pinot revealed to RMC. "The only possibility for me to continue would be to be champion of France. To wear the blue, white and red jersey for a year. We will say that this would be the only condition for me to continue perhaps in 2024. Doing a year with the blue-white-red jersey has always been a dream for me".

A pure climber, Pinot has not often been a rider that was keen for success at national championships which often favour the classics riders, puncheurs and sprinters. However, he admits that he will race the national championships and if he wins, he could extend his career into 2024 with the national colours on his chest.

Although difficult, it is a realistic goal. Pinot will start his season at the Etoile de Bessèges and build-up towards the Giro d'Italia. Then he will race the Tour de France, and could likely have a race day in his home country inbetween where he could have another big career achievement.