"I dreamed of a professional career and I succeeded": Stijn Steels calls time on his career

33-year-old Belgian, Stijn Steels has announced he's called time on his professional cycling career. The QuickStep-Alpha Vinyl rider took to Instagram to tell the world that "I am proud of my career.”

Most recently seen riding as a QuickStep domestique, Steels has also turned out for a number of other teams including Roompot–Charles, Vérandas Willems–Crelan and Topsport Vlaanderen–Baloise. The final race of Steels career did not end up being a happy one as the Belgian suffered a heavy crash during the Six Days of Ghent event.

Despite never achieving a professional victory, Steels is still incredibly proud of his career as a pro. "As a newcomer I dreamed of a professional career and I succeeded. I wanted to grow even further, but I didn't reach the absolute top. I was able to help the absolute stars for years."