"Cycling has given me so much" - INEOS Grenadiers domestique announces retirement at age 36

INEOS Grenadiers is saying goodbye to one of it's longest-standing riders. In a year where Geraint Thomas, Caleb Ewan, Jonathan Castroviejo and Omar Fraile have all announced their retirement, a fifth rider has announced the same today: Salvatore Puccio.

"After 14 brilliant years with the team, Salvatore Puccio has announced that he will retire at the end of the season. A wonderful professional and human being, we wish you all the best in everything that comes next Salva. But first, let's finish out this season strong - starting today at Bretagne Classic".

At 36 years of age, the Italian can be proud of a long career that started with a trainee stint with INEOS in 2011, turned into a pro contract the following year. Although never having won as a pro rider, he came close on many occasions including the at the Vuelta a España in 2015 and the Giro d'Italia in 2020. In 2013, he had the pleasure of wearing the pink jersey for a day after Team Sky at the time had won a team time-trial.

Throughout his long career, Puccio's selfless attitude made him a household name in the team that for many years ruled over the sport. He rode 29 monuments including Milano-Sanremo a total of 11 times, rode the Giro d'Italia on 10 occasions and the Vuelta a España on 7 occasions. Interestingly he never rode the Tour de France, but his road captain status was never put in question taking into consideration his 17 Grand Tours - of which he completed 16.

"After 14 seasons as a professional – all with the INEOS Grenadiers – I want to share that this year will be my final season in the peloton," Puccio wrote on Instagram. "Cycling has given me so much: an incredible career, experiences I’ll never forget, and friendships that will last a lifetime. Among the moments I’ll always cherish are 10 appearances at the Giro d’Italia, the pride of wearing the maglia rosa, and being part of some of our team’s greatest successes".

"There are still exciting races ahead and my focus remains on finishing this season in the way we’ve always raced - with commitment and passion. To my family, friends, teammates, and everyone who has supported me on this journey – thank you. None of it would have been possible without your incredible support".  

Within 3 hours his post received congratulations and praise from riders such as Tao Geoghegan Hart, Richie Porte, Thymen Arensman, Wout Poels, Dylan van Baarle, Leo Hayter and many more, showcasing just how many riders his presence in the peloton has had an impact on.