No racing in sight for Sam Bennett - Irishman forced to take over a month off the bike after diagnosis of heart condition

A few months ago, it was feared that Sam Bennett's career may come to an end, after a few difficult years. Following two seasons with Decathlon CMA CGM Team, he signed a one-year deal with Tom Pidcock's Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team in hopes of reviving his career. However, in November Bennett was diagnosed with a heart condition, and has only recently resumed training.

Bennett was diagnosed with Atrial fibrillation, a hearth rhythm condition which affects the beating of the heart, making it irregular and faster in sporadic moments. This poses a risk to the Irishman's health, however it does not force him to retire from the sport, specially as it was diagnosed early on and before serious complications emerged. However, due to it being connected to the heart, it was mandatory for the necessary actions to be taken, which for a starters involved over a month off the bike.

He underwent a medical procedure, ablation, and has been cleared to get back on the bike right before the start of 2026. Team doctor Lorenz Emmert has said in a press release: “After the ablation and completing all necessary medical checks the athlete was cleared to progressively resume training. The return to activity has been structured, gradual, and closely monitored at every stage, fully in line with medical protocols.”

This does of course mean his season start will be delayed, and for the time being can't be planned. The 35-year old might have the chance to choose his Grand Tour participation if he has the form, but it will be necessary to take it step by step for the time being. “Seeing Sam back in training is the most important and positive sign,” Doug Ryder, team manager, assured. “He approached the process with patience and professionalism, and the team supported him at every step. We remain fully behind him—first as a person, then as a rider.”