SINGAPORE: In a heartwarming display of fan affection, Mark Cavendish of the Astana Qazaqstan Team took a moment to pose for selfies with ecstatic fans during the media day leading up to the highly anticipated Tour de France Singapore Criterium on Saturday, capturing the spirit of appreciation for the cycling legend.—Reuters
Mark Cavendish, the celebrated British cyclist renowned for his extraordinary accomplishments, has officially declared that he will be competing in his final professional race on Sunday at the two-day Tour de France Criterium in Singapore, closing the chapter on an illustrious career filled with remarkable feats.
The cycling icon, hailed as the world’s most decorated sprinter, made waves last year when he initially announced his retirement, only to make a dramatic comeback, ultimately setting the all-time record for most stage wins at the Tour de France during this year’s illustrious race.
Over the course of his distinguished career, the 39-year-old Cavendish secured an individual silver medal while competing on the track at the 2016 Rio Olympics, and triumphed in claiming three prestigious world titles within the madison discipline, solidifying his status as a formidable force in cycling.
“Sunday will be the final race of my professional cycling career,” Cavendish expressed elaborately on Instagram, reflecting on his nearly 20 years in the sport. “I am lucky enough to have done what I love for almost 20 years, and I can now say that I have achieved everything that I can on the bike.”
“Cycling has given me so much and I love the sport,” he continued, emphasizing his passion and commitment. “I’ve always wanted to make a difference in it and now I am ready to see what the next chapter has in store for me.”
Cavendish’s remarkable career is highlighted by an impressive tally of 165 victories, including a record 35 stage wins at the Tour de France—outshining the legendary Belgian cyclist Eddy Merckx by one stage victory. He further elevated his cycling legacy by winning the road world title in 2011.
The Isle of Man native, often referred to by his affectionate moniker “the Manx Missile,” demonstrated an explosive ability to dominate bunch sprints, captivating fans worldwide.
His journey wasn’t without challenges; he faced a tough diagnosis of Epstein-Barr Virus in 2017, which led to glandular fever and a difficult recovery period. However, Cavendish showcased his resilience by returning to form in 2021, where he celebrated triumphantly by winning four stages of the Tour de France with the Deceuninck-QuickStep team.
After finishing third at the Saitama Criterium in Japan last weekend, Cavendish was tight-lipped about his retirement plans, choosing to focus on the present. “I’d rather not talk about my future,” he remarked, shortly after defending Singapore Criterium race champion Jasper Philipsen hinted at the possibility of Cavendish bowing out after the race.
Cavendish finished as the runner-up behind Philipsen in last year’s race, with Philipsen predicting that the British veteran would pose the greatest challenge to his title defense in Singapore. “It’s always difficult to repeat, and definitely with this being Mark’s last race,” the 26-year-old Belgian said, acknowledging Cavendish’s enduring motivation while gearing up for what promises to be a fierce competition. “I think he’s very motivated as well to show off his amazing career that he had for the last time here in Singapore.”
The exciting race will showcase 36 cyclists representing nine teams, among them four-time Tour de France champion Chris Froome from Britain, four-time Vuelta Espana winner Primoz Roglic of Slovenia, and the rising Eritrean star Biniam Girmay, who claimed victory over both Roglic and Cavendish at last week’s Criterium in Saitama.
Competitors will navigate 25 laps of a scenic 2.3-kilometre circuit, which winds through the historic Civic District of Singapore, promising an exhilarating spectacle for fans and participants alike.
Published in Dawn, November 10th, 2024
Took a toll on his performance and led to a temporary retirement from the sport. However, his resilience and determination paved the way for a remarkable comeback, culminating in his record-breaking performance at this year’s Tour de France.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. Mark, you recently announced that the Tour de France Criterium in Singapore will be your final professional race. How are you feeling as you approach this significant milestone?
**Mark Cavendish:** Thanks for having me. Honestly, it feels surreal. I’ve poured my heart and soul into cycling for almost two decades. It’s bittersweet to think about closing this chapter, but I’m also excited to embrace what comes next.
**Interviewer:** You’ve had an incredible career, including a comeback after facing some serious health challenges. What have been some highlights for you that stand out the most?
**Mark Cavendish:** There are so many moments that stand out—winning stages at the Tour de France, celebrating the world title in 2011, and of course, the amazing support from my fans. I’ll never forget the feeling of setting the all-time record for most stage wins at the Tour. That was a special moment.
**Interviewer:** During the media day in Singapore, you took time to connect with your fans, which clearly means a lot to you. What does that fan support mean to you, especially at this point in your career?
**Mark Cavendish:** It means everything. Without the fans, none of this would be possible. Their energy pushes me to perform at my best, and the moments I get to share with them—like taking selfies—are the ones I treasure most. It feels like a big family.
**Interviewer:** You’ve expressed your love for cycling and your intention to make a difference in the sport. Looking ahead, do you have any specific plans for life after racing?
**Mark Cavendish:** I want to stay involved in cycling, perhaps through mentoring or coaching. I’ve learned so much over the years, and I’d love to share that knowledge with the next generation of cyclists. Ultimately, I’m excited to explore new passions and see where life takes me.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mark. It’s been a pleasure chatting with you, and we wish you all the best in your final race and beyond.
**Mark Cavendish:** Thank you! I appreciate it. I’m looking forward to making the most of my last day on the bike.
