CYCLING – TEAM Bahrain Victorious star Pello Bilbao announced yesterday that he will be retiring from professional cycling at the end of the 2026 season.
The Basque rider confirmed this on the sixth and concluding stage of the Itzulia Basque Country, making the announcement in front of home crowds. Bilbao completed the six-stage UCI World Tour race in sixth place on the general classification (GC) as Bahrain Victorious’s best-ranked rider. He finished yesterday’s rain-hit 135.2-kilometre leg in 20th, helping him climb three places on the GC for his final overall ranking.
Now 36, Bilbao turned professional in 2011 and joined Bahrain Victorious in 2020. He has become a cornerstone of the squad and will complete seven seasons with the team by the end of this year, playing an integral role both on and off the bike.
With several months of racing still ahead before he hangs up his cleats, Bilbao leaves behind an impressive record. His victories include two stage wins at the Giro d’Italia and a memorable stage win at the Tour de France.
Beyond stage success, he has been one of the most consistent general classification riders of his generation, regularly featuring on the podium at the UAE Tour and securing top 10 finishes at both the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France on multiple occasions.
Bilbao also built a reputation as a reliable and intelligent rider, contributing to team success across Grand Tours and one-day races, while mentoring younger teammates throughout his career.
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