Unibet Rose Rockets sprinter retires at age 25 - "I've realized it's time for something else"

Throughout the past three seasons, Unibet Rose Rockets have been steadily growing, but in 2026 it should skyrocket up into a high ProTeam level with potential wildcards for races such as the Tour de France and Paris-Roubaix. However those who have contributed to the team's success can't be forgotten, and that includes Davide Bomboi, Belgian sprinter who is retiring from racing at only 25 years of age.

"A new year has begun, and it's time to say goodbye to professional cycling. After some thought and self-reflection, I've realized it's time for something else," Bomboi shared in a message on Instagram. "I felt like I wasn't quite physically capable of making the same progress as the team. Moreover, the bar is very high in today's professional cycling, and I came to the conclusion that I wouldn't be able to maintain that level in the coming years."

The increasingly high demands for riders to be at a good level in the sport continues to push out some, more and mor every year around the age of Bomboi. There have been several who, even younger, have ended their time in the sport this year despite their positions in World Tour teams and evident talent on the bike.

Bomboi is a rider that did not achieve a pro win, but was the team's most notable sprinter until the now-signing of Dylan Groenewegen. Mostly in 2023 and 2024, he was present in the bunch sprints right behind the big World Tour figures, often being the French team's best finisher and providing it with some exposure.

However, him stepping away from the bike also comes as a result of a health condition that has held him back significantly: "Partly because I've been dealing with a form of anemia my whole life, which seriously impacts my recovery during multi-day races. This has led to many serious disappointments in myself and my body".

"So I've decided to take a step back, but no hard feelings. I've enjoyed every moment as a professional cyclist and fulfilled my dream by racing for three years for one of the coolest and most unique teams in the peloton". The team is taking massive steps into next season with the signing of several high-quality riders, but the Belgian will remain attached to the project.

"I'll definitely keep cycling, because I've definitely grown to love this sport even more—and maybe even more. In addition, I'll start as Junior Partnerships Manager with the team in January," he reveals. "When one door closes, another opens."