Evenepoel's domestique puts an end to his career – "I look back with pride on everything these years have given me"

Belgian cyclist Jordi Warlop has decided to put an end to his career after eight years in the professional peloton. He is retiring at a young age, as he is just 29 years old.

Sharing the news through his personal Instagram, Warlop reflected on both the triumphs and challenges of his career, expressing his gratitude and optimism for a new beginning.

In his retirement announcement, Warlop states: “After 8 years as a professional cyclist, my career comes to an end. I look back with pride on everything these years have given me: racing days, fun, emotions, but above all the people I’ve been able to meet along the way.”

He continues by emphasizing his resilience and how he never gave up despite all the setbacks he encountered, a common feature shared by all cyclists. “I had to come back more than once after setbacks or injuries. Every time, standing up again, starting over, keeping faith... That may well be my greatest victory.”

Warlop thanked everyone who supported him throughout his career, who have contributed to his success. “A huge thank you to all the teams I was part of, to teammates, staff, sponsors, family, and fans who always stood behind me. Without you, this adventure wouldn’t have been possible.”

He closed his message by looking ahead with hope, although not revealing what plans are awaiting him after hanging the bike. “On to a new chapter, with as much passion, just in a different pace.”

Warlop didn't have a meteoric ascent to the WorldTour. Instead, he stayed in the professional team level Sport Vlaanderen - Baloise for four years. In 2022, B&B Hotels - KTM signed for one year, and after that it was Soudal - Quick-Step securing his services to ride in a domestique role.

After spending the 2023 season between the development team and the main squad, he was finally promoted to the World Tour team the following year, becoming a very valuable teammate for sprinters such as Tim Merlier and Paul Magnier.

He didn't manage to get any professional victory, but he got close in 2023 when he finished in second place at the Muscat Classic, being outsprinted only by Jenthe Biermans. He racked up other strong results that year, such as a fourth place at the Grand Prix Criquielion or a sixth place at Grote prijs Jean - Pierre Monseré. 

Other noteworthy results he got in his first years include a second place in the 2014 European Junior Road Championships and a third place in 2017 Paris-Roubaix Espoirs.