Champion Cyclist Marcel Meisen Announces Farewell Season Collaboration with YouTube‘s RTF
German cross-country champion Marcel Meisen is gearing up for his final season on the bike, and he’s doing it in unique fashion. Meisen, who has been racing for the Stevens team, will compete as an individual starter for the YouTube channel RTF in his farewell tour.
The news comes on the heels of a recent announcement by RTF founders Tobias Knaup and Richard Weinzheimer, both former Continental riders with a strong cycling pedigree. The dynamic duo unveiled the formation of their cross-country team, sparking excitement among fans and fellow athletes alike.
A Reunion on Two Wheels
The collaboration between Meisen and RTF holds special significance, as the trio shares a history dating back to their time together with Lotto – Kern Haus in 2015 and 2016. Before rejoining Corendon, now Alpecin – Deceuninck, Meisen raced alongside Knaup and Weinzheimer, forging a bond that extends beyond the competitive track.
“It’s fun to be back with Tobias and Richard,” Meisen said. “We’ve raced together before, and I’m really excited to see what we can accomplish in this last season.”
Meisen has made it clear that his 2024/25 season will be his swan song. He hopes to conclude his illustrious career either after the German Championships or, ideally, after the World Cup in Liévin at the beginning of February.
From Global Cycling Network to RTF
Knaup and Weinzheimer are no strangers to the world of cycling media. They gained recognition for their work with Global Cycling Network (GCN) before embarking on a new venture with their own YouTube channel, RTF.
Launched just seven months ago, RTF has already amassed a substantial following of 94,600 subscribers. The channel boasts a diverse lineup of guests, including cycling superstars like Lea Lin Teutenberg, Marcel Kittel, Lisa Klein, Tim Torn Teutenberg, Maximilian Walscheid, and decathlon champion Niklas Kaul.
With their engaging content and captivating storytelling, Knaup and Weinzheimer have built a strong community of cycling enthusiasts who connect with their vibrant personalities and insightful interviews.
What are some of Marcel Meisen’s proudest moments in his cycling career?
## Curtain Call for a Champion: Marcel Meisen’s Farewell Season with RTF
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we have a special guest, Marcel Meisen, German champion cyclist, who’s announcing his retirement from professional racing. Marcel, thanks so much for joining us.
**Marcel Meisen:** It’s my pleasure.
**Host:** So, this is your final season, and you’re joining forces with the YouTube channel RTF. Tell us, what made you choose this unique path for your farewell tour?
**Marcel Meisen:** Well, after eleven incredible years racing at the elite level, I felt it was time for a change. When Tobias and Richard from RTF approached me about joining their new team, I was immediately intrigued. They have a fresh, exciting approach to cycling, and I love the idea of bringing the sport to a wider audience through YouTube.
**Host:** RTF is gaining a lot of traction in the cycling community. What are your expectations for this collaboration?
**Marcel Meisen:** I’m excited to share my experience and knowledge with a new generation of fans. RTF’s focus on storytelling and behind-the-scenes content really resonates with me. It’s a chance to show people the human side of professional cycling and hopefully inspire some young riders along the way.
**Host:** You’ve had an illustrious career, representing Germany in the UCI World Championships eleven times [[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcel_Meisen)]. What are some of your proudest moments?
**Marcel Meisen:** Wow, it’s hard to pick just a few. Competing at the World Championships was always an incredible honor. Winning the German National Championship title was a dream come true, and I’ll cherish those memories forever.
**Host:** As you prepare to hang up your racing shoes, what advice would you give to aspiring young cyclists?
**Marcel Meisen:** Believe in yourself, work hard, and never give up on your dreams. Cycling is a challenging sport, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Enjoy the journey and embrace the challenges along the way.
**Host:** Well said. Marcel, thank you for your time and your inspiring words. We wish you all the best for your final season with RTF.
**Marcel Meisen:** Thank you. It’s been a pleasure.
