A month ago, Sébastien Minard revealed that he was still looking for a contract for the 2017 season. Unfortunately for the Frenchman, the chances of finding a team diminish as time goes by. In an interview with Directvélo, Minard admitted that it is now very probable that his retirement is unavoidable. 

"Today, there is a 90% chance that my career ends here ,” he said. “I did not expect it at all. I had a serious contact but it did not succeed for the moment. I have until December 31 to sign for a team, otherwise I will retire.”

Minard, 34, took part in a few cyclo-crosses at the end of the season, including the last Coupe de France in Nommay. He is not the only one in this situation since nine of his teammates at Ag2r - La Mondiale have not been offered a new contract either. However, while Sébastien Turgot decided to try an adventure in the amateur ranks to perhaps get back to the highest level, Minard won’t follow that path. 

"From a sporting aspect, I'm not interested but I will probably keep a foot in cycling. I still live in this sport that I have been practicing for many years." 

The Frenchmany is already training again even if his hopes are now slim. On December 31, he could end twelve years of professional riding.