In a significant development in the world of professional cycling, Arnaud Démare, the accomplished French sprinter, has officially declared his retirement from the sport. At the age of 34, Démare has concluded an illustrious career marked by numerous achievements, including an impressive tally of 97 professional victories. His final competitive appearance is set for the prestigious Paris-Tours race on Sunday, October 12, 2023, where he intends to bid farewell to the sport that has defined his life for nearly three decades.

A Remarkable Achievement: 97 Victories

Throughout his career, Arnaud Démare has established himself as one of the most successful cyclists in active competition, ranking third among his peers in terms of total victories. Only Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogacar, boasting 107 wins, and Norwegian Alexander Kristoff, with 98 victories, surpass him. Démare’s victories are not just numbers; they reflect his prowess as a sprinter and his ability to compete at the highest levels of cycling. His most notable accomplishments include winning eight stages of the Giro d'Italia across the years 2019, 2020, and 2022, as well as triumphs in two stages of the Tour de France in 2017 and 2018. Adding to his impressive resume is his victory at the iconic Milan-San Remo in 2016, one of cycling's five prestigious Monuments, which are regarded as the pinnacle of one-day races.

Reflecting on a Passionate Career

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Démare expressed his mixed emotions about retiring, stating, “The time has come.” He reminisced about his journey, revealing that he began cycling at the tender age of six. His lifelong passion for the sport has enabled him to fulfill his dreams and compete at the highest echelon, representing French cycling with pride. “I never imagined achieving all this,” he reflected, showcasing his humility and gratitude for the opportunities he has had throughout his career.

The Recent Landscape of French Cycling

Démare's retirement marks the end of an era in French cycling, as he joins fellow compatriots Thibaut Pinot and Romain Bardet in saying goodbye to the professional circuit. Pinot, a beloved figure among cycling fans, is also set to retire at the end of the 2023 season, while Bardet announced his departure earlier in June. Démare and Pinot, in particular, have shared a long-standing professional relationship, having raced together as teammates for the Groupama-FDJ team for many years under the management of Marc Madiot. In August 2023, Démare transitioned to the Arkéa-B & B Hotels team, which has faced significant financial challenges and is currently threatened with potential dissolution due to funding issues.

A Legacy Built on Family and Support

Throughout his career, Démare has emphasized the importance of family in his journey. He credited his family for instilling a passion for cycling that has propelled him through the highs and lows of professional competition. His gratitude extends to his teammates, coaches, and fans who have supported him along the way. “I am proud of my journey and deeply grateful to my family, my teams, and my supporters,” he stated, highlighting the collective effort that has contributed to his success. As he prepares to step away from competitive cycling, he reassured fans that though he may no longer race professionally, his love for the sport will endure. “You will still see me in a race bib, participating in the sport I love, purely for the joy of it,” he concluded.

Final Race: Paris-Tours

Démare's final competitive event, Paris-Tours, is a race he is familiar with, having previously claimed victory in this event in both 2021 and 2022. This race, known for its beautiful scenery and challenging routes, provides an opportunity for Démare to conclude his career on a high note. The anticipation surrounding this final appearance is palpable, as fans and fellow competitors alike look forward to witnessing the culmination of his remarkable journey in the sport.

The Impact of Démare's Retirement on the Cycling World

The departure of Démare, alongside other prominent French cyclists, signals a significant transitional phase in the world of cycling. As new talents emerge, the absence of established figures like Démare, Pinot, and Bardet will undoubtedly leave a void in the peloton. Their retirements not only impact the dynamics within their respective teams but also the overall landscape of French cycling, which has seen a resurgence in recent years with promising young athletes stepping into the limelight.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Démare's Career

As Arnaud Démare prepares to hang up his cycling shoes, it is essential to celebrate the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. With 97 professional victories to his name, he has etched his place in the annals of cycling history. His journey from a young boy discovering his passion for cycling to becoming one of the sport's elite sprinters is an inspiring narrative that resonates with fans and aspiring athletes alike. Démare's contributions to French cycling and his representation on the international stage will be remembered for years to come.

In conclusion, while Démare may be stepping away from the competitive scene, his influence on the sport will continue to inspire future generations of cyclists. As he embarks on this new chapter in his life, the cycling community will undoubtedly miss his presence in races, but they can take comfort in knowing that his passion for cycling will endure beyond the competitive arena.