Leo Hayter updates after pausing pro career due to depression diagnosis: "I've had so many messages from people saying my story has reassured them that they are not alone"

Last week, INEOS Grenadiers prodigy Leo Hayter announced he would be taking an indefinite break from his professional cycling career, due to an ongoing battle with depression. Since this news came to light, many have come out to send warm messages to the 23-year-old.

"Without going into too much detail, I have been struggling for some years now. Last May I was diagnosed with depression and although those symptoms at first improved, I have found myself in that same place again," Hayter announced in a statement last week. "I broke down this year and have not been training/racing for some time now. It's unlikely I will return to professional cycling this year. For this same reason it's also not realistic to continue with Team INEOS."

As mentioned, since his heart breaking revelation Hayter has received many well wishes from across the the cycling world. "Thank you all for the kind words and messages of support," begins the former Liege-Bastogne-Liege U23 winner's update. "It's honestly a surprise to me to see so many people publicly say they can relate to things I am going through."

"But also privately, I've had so many messages from people saying my story has reassured them that they are not alone. especially in the world of cycling," Hayter continues. "I never imagined that I would have people messaging me, saying that my story has encouraged them to seek help and support."

"I know there will be so many more who are afraid to share any of their feelings," concludes the Brit, whose brother Ethan Hayter was recently confirmed to be leaving INEOS Grenadiers for pastures new as the potential replacement for Julian Alaphilippe at Soudal - Quick-Step. "It took me a long time to be able to share this even with those closest to me. You are not alone."