'I’ve lived an absolute dream' - Mark Cavendish confirms he will retire at the end of the season

'It’s the perfect time to say 2023 will be my final season' - British sprinter explains retirement decision on second Giro d’Italia rest day

Mark Cavendish
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Mark Cavendish has confirmed that he will hang up his wheels and retire from professional cycling at the end of the 2023 season.

Speaking at a press conference organised by his team, Astana Qazaqstan, during Monday’s second rest day at the Giro d’Italia, Cavendish confirmed that he would retire from the sport at the end of the year and said it was the “perfect time” to announce his decision. 

"I’ve absolutely loved racing every kilometre of this race so far, so I feel it’s the perfect time to say it’s my final Giro d’Italia and 2023 will be my final season as a professional cyclist," he said.  

Cavendish celebrated his 38th birthday on Sunday and there was much speculation that an announcement on his future was imminent. His decision to retire brings an end to an illustrious 17 year career, which has seen him become one of the greatest sprinters of all time.  

One of his final targets as a professional will be a record breaking 35th Tour de France stage win. Cavendish will make his 14th and final appearance at the French Grand Tour this July with Astana Qazaqstan. He currently shares the all-time record for stage victories with Belgian cycling legend Eddy Merckx.

Surrounded by his children and wife, Peta, Cavendish explained that he does not yet know which race will be his final outing as a professional, but vowed to make the most of his final moments within cycling.

“Cycling’s been my life for over 25 years. I’ve lived an absolute dream,” Cavendish said. “The bike has given me the opportunity to see the world and meet incredible people, a lot of whom I’m proud to call friends. I love the sport more than you can even imagine and I can’t see myself going too far from it, that’s for sure.”

"When you understand it’s not forever, it’s easier to enjoy every feeling this sport has to offer."

"Today is my son Casper’s fifth birthday, fortunately it’s a rest day and I can spend his birthday with him. I think it’s important now that I can be there for every birthday for my wife Peta and all our children," he added.

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1