Fabian Cancellara signed off on his cycling career yesterday evening in front of a packed crowd at the Kuipke in Ghent.
Also present to say goodbye to the Swiss rider were Iljo Keisse, Bradley Wiggins, Frank Schleck, Filippo Pozzato, Sep Vanmarcke, Sven Nys and former team-mates Edward Theuns and Markel Irizar.
Cancellara gained many fans in Belgium during his career where he took many of his biggest wins including three victories in the Tour of Flanders (2010, 2013, 2014) and three wins in E3 Harelbeke (2010, 2011, 2013).
“It is incomprehensible that so many people would show up for the retirement of a Swiss rider,” he said about the reception from the fans. “This could only happen in cycling crazy Belgium.”
"Ciao Fabian" – Only one year, but it was a big honour and pleasure to ride with u! @f_cancellara #CiaoFabian #Kuipke #TrekSegafredo #Gent pic.twitter.com/nRpKKDerWK
— Edward Theuns (@EdwardTheuns) November 12, 2016
Since hanging up his wheels, Cancellara has been kept busy and spoke about his plans for the future last night.
“It’s been very busy lately. There has been the presentation of my book, I did a book signing, did a television show and today there is this cycling party, the icing on the cake of my career.”
“I will stay in cycling but not as a directeur sportif. I am ambitious. and I will try to find a good balance between work and my family.”
