"Farewell to a champion and also my biggest rival" - Demi Vollering says heartfelt 'thank you' to Annemiek Van Vleuten

The legendary career of Annemiek Van Vleuten came to a close on Sunday as the 40-year-old Dutchwoman raced for the final time at the Simac Ladies Tour. Her biggest rival over recent years has been Demi Vollering and she has now shared a parting message to her compatriot.

"Farewell to a champion and also my biggest rival from the last 2 years," writes the Team SD Worx rider, who has taken over Van Vleuten's crown of standout general classification rider in the women's World Tour peloton, on her official Instagram account. "Thank you Annemiek Van Vleuten for all the nice battles (also the not nice battles)."

Vollering and Van Vleuten have locked horns numerous times over the past few years and also worked together as part of the Dutch national side at World Championships. Clearly, there is a lot of mutual respect between the pair.

"What a career she has had. Annemiek, you won a lot of big titles and inspired a lot of people in the way you did and with the way you were involved in the sport," continues Vollering. "Hopefully you have a beautiful day in and around your training area in the Netherlands with many of your loved ones. All the best to you in your next chapter and see you soon."