Egan Bernal explains absence in open and honest message about future: 'I've made sacrifices I never imagined'

Bernal, who is under contract with INEOS through to the end of 2029, decided on his own after the Tour de France to take a sabbatical. “After so many years devoted entirely to cycling, I feel that I have given the best years of my life to this sport, both as a cyclist and as a person.”

"I've made sacrifices I could never have imagined, won races that once seemed like impossible dreams, experienced amazing moments, but also some very difficult ones. Still, I can now look back with peace of mind, proud of everything I’ve done and achieved, without any regrets,” said Bernal, who seemed to be heading towards a farewell.

However, that is not the case. “I still have a contract with the team through to the end of 2029, and right now my plan is to simply start again next season,” he emphasised.

But he also added: “Over the years, I’ve also learned that this sport isn’t just about results, victories, and sacrifices. It’s also about enjoying the journey and continuing to find the motivation to do what you love.”

"This year, I decided to end my season after the Tour de France. I felt I needed some time to myself—to rest, take a step back, and rediscover the peace of mind that sometimes gets lost in the constant rhythm of competition,” said the former winner of the Tour de France (2019) and the Giro d’Italia (2021).

Since a hard crash—when he ran into the back of a stationary bus during training in January 2022—Bernal has been working hard to get back to his best.

“I’ve had conversations with the team and with the people around me, and we’re all on the same page: I want to give myself the time and space I need to face what lies ahead with the same conviction and dedication I’ve always had.”

"I don't know exactly what the coming years will bring, and I don't think I need to know all of that right now. What I do know for sure is that as long as I keep racing, I want to do so with the conviction that I still have a lot to give. It’s not just about continuing for the sake of continuing, but about having the motivation, the physical and mental strength, and the will to remain competitive and make a difference.”

"For now, I want to enjoy the present, take this time to relax, and let time take its course."