"We'll see how long they can last" - Retiring pro shares concerns for this generation's leading stars

In the modern era, the peloton's biggest stars seem to be getting younger. This year was the first that Tadej Pogacar couldn't compete for the White Jersey at the Tour de France and his successor in the Best Young Rider's classification, Remco Evenepoel, has added a historic Olympic double to his incredible palmares this year.

At the other end of the spectrum is Gorka Izagirre. The 37-year-old Spaniard bring his professional career to and end at the conclusion of 2024 after over a decade and a half in the peloton. Concerning the stars of today's generation though, the vastly experienced Izagirre admits he does have some worries, despite their brilliant level.

"They are very young. These stars are coming on strong, but we'll see how long they can last," the former Giro d'Italia stage winner and Paris-Nice podium finisher in an extensive interview with Marca. "This is a sport that requires sacrifice and is hard. It's hard to stay. You can get there, but staying there for many years is complicated. We'll see."

Riding for the likes of Movistar Team, Bahrain Merida, Astana and most recently Cofidis, Izagirre has seen a lot over the years. "I am happy with what we have achieved. My worst moment has perhaps been this year and the best, in terms of results, when I was in Bahrain. Without a doubt. But I had the best moments at Movistar," he reflects. "The one who impressed me the most was Alejandro Valverde. We all know what he has won and what he has been, but as a leader I stick with him for his simplicity and naturalness. He was very good at making an effort and forming a group, which is another important factor in cycling. And then how good he was, that he was the best. El Bala left a big mark on me."