Pello Bilbao leaves professional cycling at the end of the season
Pello Bilbao has announced his departure from professional cycling at the end of the 2026 season. The Basque cyclist has confirmed the news inthe 6th stage of the Return to the Basque Country, making the announcement in front of the crowd at home.
The 36-year-old cyclist, who became a professional in 2011 with the Euskaltel-Euskadi team and has enjoyed a long and successful career at the highest level, has become the team's cornerstone since joining Bahrain Victoriousin 2020 and will complete seven seasons with the team at the end of this year.
With several months of racing still ahead, Bilbao will leave a spectacular record, including two stage wins in the Giro de Italia and one stage victory in the Tour de France.
In addition, he gained a reputation as a reliable and intelligent cyclist, contributing to the success of teams in big races and one-day races, while at the same time supporting younger members throughout his career.
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The 36-year-old cyclist has announced his retirement at the end of the season in the run-up to the final stage of the 2026 Tour.
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The Bahrain-Victorious Vizcaino cyclist is ranked 11th in the overall ranking and has surrendered to a good level in the Galdakao stage on the day of Alex Aranburu's victory.
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