Johan Vansummeren has decided to put an end to his professional cycling career. The 35-year-old Belgian has been away from competition since February because of a heart anomaly that required further medical examinations.

"I am really sad to stop my career because of medical reasons but my health is more important than cycling ambitions," he says. "Over the last few months I have done many medical tests. Then, two surgical interventions put a name on my health issue. From now, my state of health requires repeated health checks and forces me to end career. 

"I spent 13 exceptional seasons in professional cycling that allowed me to make a living from my passion. I did tremendous physical efforts to ride among the best riders as well. I even had the benefit to win Paris-Roubaix which was the race I dreamt of.  For sure, this victory will remain as my best memory in professional cycling.

"I would also like to thank my family and friends who have always been there for me in both good and bad moments of my career. Obviously, I won’t forget my supporters and the AG2R LA MONDIALE team in which I lived two seasons of great human experiences."

“I am really sorry to know that Johan has to leave our team in such conditions," Ag2r manager Vicent Lavenu says. "It is never easy for a rider to put an end to his career due to  medical reasons but, doubtlessly, there is no other choice to make.  He has to protect his personal health above all. 

"To me Johan in a top rider and a man who has great human qualities. It was an honor to count him among our team during two seasons.
I wish to my friend the best for his recovery and his new career. “

Vansummeren spent several years at a loyal domestique at Lotto before he joined Garmin. He took a surprise win at the 2011 Paris-Roubaix.