Geraint Thomas Concludes His Professional Cycling Journey in Cardiff
in a heartfelt farewell, Geraint Thomas brought his illustrious cycling career to a close during the Tour of Britain, held in his native city of Cardiff. This event marked the culmination of an exceptional journey that has inspired many across Wales and beyond.
A Celebrated Departure Rooted in Welsh Heritage
The 2018 tour de France champion and two-time Olympic track gold medalist was honored with a ceremonial guard of honor before embarking on the final 122.2km stage. The last leg commenced at the Geraint Thomas National Velodrome in Newport-a facility bearing his name that stands as a testament to his profound influence on Welsh cycling.
Community Honors and Iconic landmarks Along the Route
Thousands lined the streets along the racecourse to celebrate thomas’s remarkable career. The route traced key locations from his upbringing, including stops near his childhood cycling club and family home. Riders then faced the demanding climb up Caerphilly Mountain before concluding on North Road in central Cardiff.
Memorable Moments from the Final Stage and Race Outcomes
Dutch cyclist Olav Kooij claimed victory for Team Jumbo-Visma by winning this stage ahead of British riders Samuel Watson and Fred wright. Simultaneously occurring, Romain Grégoire from Groupama-FDJ secured overall triumph in the general classification after an extraordinary performance throughout.
A Touching Farewell for a Welsh Cycling Icon
the spotlight shone brightly on Thomas’s last ride as teammates from Ineos Grenadiers donned jerseys specially designed by him to show their support during this emotional occasion. As he crossed Cardiff’s finish line one final time, cheers resonated through the city streets.
“It is truly emotional,” Thomas expressed while standing beside his son Macsen, visibly moved by this significant moment.
image: Geraint Thomas receives a guard of honour during his final professional race
“Crossing this finish line feels like reaching my personal summit,” he added with emotion. “Finding words is difficult because today means so much.”
“even though I rarely raced officially representing Wales, every international competition felt like carrying my homeland with me,” he reflected warmly.
“The overwhelming support today made riding toward that finish incredibly moving-I was choked up while still pedaling amid such an amazing atmosphere.”
A Decade-Long Commitment with Team Sky/ineos Grenadiers
Thomas began competing professionally when Team Sky launched in 2010 and remained loyal through its conversion into Ineos Grenadiers until retirement.In this final Tour of Britain appearance, he completed all stages to finish 80th overall-demonstrating remarkable perseverance at cycling’s elite level over more than ten years.
