Michael Mørkøv prepares for final race: "I feel incredibly lucky to be able to finish like that"

Michael Morkov, the 39-year-old Olympic gold medallist from Tokyo, is set to retire this Saturday in a fitting venue, the Ballerup Super Arena, where his cycling journey began as a young aspiring rider.

Reflecting on his unique retirement plans, Mørkøv told Ekstra Bladet, "It's a privilege you have as a track rider and something that's completely unique. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to finish like that."

Comparing it to other less glamorous possibilities, Mørkøv added, "It wouldn't be as glamorous to end your career by riding a gravel race in Paris-Tours in the rain and then taking the train to the airport afterwards. There's no big celebration in that," he said, referring to Paris-Tours, his final road race.

Mørkøv’s retirement event will include a special visit from Mads Pedersen, who will honour the veteran track star before their relationship shifts in a new direction. Starting next year, Mørkøv will transition into his role as the Danish national coach, working with cyclists like Pedersen.

The gesture from Pedersen holds significant meaning for Mørkøv:

"Mads is doing Danish track cycling a huge favour by showing that you can easily ride on the track, even if you are one of the world's best road cyclists. So I of course take it as a big pat on the back that he comes in to honour me one last time."