Multiple Irish national champion Matt Brammeier is to retire from professional road racing, team Aqua Blue Sport have announced today. The 33-year-old who was born in Liverpool, is moving to a backroom role with British Cycling, having been appointed as the lead academy coach for the Great Britain Cycling Team’s men’s endurance programme.
Brammeier has enjoyed a 12-year career in the professional peloton, with highlights including a record-breaking four consecutive Irish national road race titles (2010-2013) as well as one time-trial title in 2011. In addition, he also won a stage of the Ster ZLM Toer in 2015.
Prior to riding for Aqua Blue Sport, Brammeier rode for MTN-Qhubeka and before that raced with teams including An Post–Sean Kelly, HTC–Highroad, Omega Pharma–Quick-Step, Champion System and Synergy Baku.
“After more than a decade in the peloton I’ve finally decided that the time is right to move on to the next stage in my career,” Brammeier said.
“I feel massively privileged and proud of my career to date. There’s been so many happy memories created along the way and I’ve been lucky enough to cross paths with so many amazing people in some amazing parts of the world.
“To be given the opportunity to continue to work within the sport I’m so passionate about and contribute to the future careers of the next generation of British cyclists fills me with nothing but pride. Thanks so much to everyone that helped me along my journey so far.”
Commenting on the rider’s decision, Aqua Blue Sport team owner Rick Delaney thanked Brammeier for his contribution to the team and wished him all the best for the future.
“Matt has been a loyal servant to Aqua Blue Sport both on the road and behind the scenes, and his experience will be missed – especially among our younger riders for whom he enjoyed playing the role of mentor on the road,” Delaney said.
“It is clear that he has the passion, aptitude and experience for the coaching and development of up and coming riders and to this end, his appointment by British Cycling seems like an excellent fit for both parties.
“We wish Matt the very best with his future endeavours and look forward to meeting him again on the road.”
