Cycling is more than just numbers on a screen—it's about passion, teamwork, and the stories behind every rider. But here's where it gets emotional: veteran Belgian domestique Tosh Van der Sande, at 34, has announced his planned retirement, leaving the sport he's dedicated 14 years to. Yet, his departure comes at a time when nearly 20 other Belgian professionals face an uncertain future in a rapidly shrinking job market. And this is the part most people miss: while Van der Sande steps away on his own terms, others may not be so fortunate.
Van der Sande, who turned pro with Lotto-Belisol in 2012, spent his final two seasons with Visma-Lease a Bike. Though his career included just two victories—a stage win in the Tour de l'Ain and another in the Tour de Wallonie—he earned a reputation as a reliable and hardworking team player. His retirement marks the end of an era, but it also highlights the broader challenges facing cyclists today.
But here's where it gets controversial: the cycling world is currently grappling with a wave of team closures and mergers that threaten to leave dozens of riders without contracts. In Belgium, ProTeam Wagner Bazin WB is on the brink of collapse, with first-year pros already released from their contracts. Meanwhile, in France, WorldTour squad Arkéa-B&B Hotels has confirmed it won't apply for a 2026 license, further tightening the job market. Is this the beginning of a larger crisis in professional cycling?
Adding to the turmoil is the pending merger between Intermarché-Wanty and Lotto, set for final confirmation on October 18. This consolidation will leave 16 riders from both teams without a job, including standout performers like Kobe Goossens, who secured wins at the Mallorca Challenge in 2023, and Dries De Pooter, who recently triumphed in a stage of the Tour of Kyushu. Are mergers like these a necessary evil for the sport's survival, or do they signal a deeper problem?
As Van der Sande rides off into the sunset, his story serves as a reminder that cycling is as much about the human experience as it is about results. But for those left behind in this shrinking landscape, the future is anything but certain. What does this mean for the next generation of riders? And how can the sport adapt to ensure its survival? Let’s discuss—share your thoughts in the comments below.
