In a message on Facebook, Bradley Wiggins has announced that he has finally retired after several months of speculation.

Wiggins ended his career this year by winning a new Madison World Championship title and, a few months later, another gold medal in the team pursuit at the Olympic Games. He is the Brit with most Olympic medals. His series did not stop there since it was expected that he would finish his career in November at the 6 Days of Ghent. Riding with his friend Mark Cavendish, he took the win in the event which is dear to his heart as he was botn in the Belgian city.

On the very day of the victory, he questioned his decision to retire. Finally, he has ended the speculation on December 28 by adding his name to the long list of riders that will end their career.

Wiggins' full statement

"I have been lucky enough to live a dream and fulfil my childhood aspiration of making a living and a career out of the sport I fell in love with at the age of 12. I've met my idols and ridden with and alongside the best for 20 years. I have worked with the world’s best coaches and managers who I will always be grateful to for their support.

"What will stick with me forever is the support and love from the public though thick and thin, all as a result of riding a pushbike for a living. 2012 blew my mind and was a gas. Cycling has given me everything and I couldn't have done it without the support of my wonderful wife Cath and our amazing kids.

"2016 is the end of the road for this chapter, onwards and upwards, "feet on the ground, head in the clouds" kids from Kilburn don't win Olympic Golds and Tour de Frances'! They do now."