'I had so much more left to give and dreams left to chase' – 22-year-old retires after failing to find a team
Former Soudal Quick-Step development team rider underwent four surgeries in four years
Belgian cyclist Senne Hulsmans, 22, has announced his retirement from the sport after being unable to secure a team for the 2027 season. Hulsmans, who previously raced for Soudal Quick-Step and VolkerWessels, cited multiple injuries, surgeries, rehabilitation, and a significant crash as reasons for his decision. Despite his love for the sport, Hulsmans admitted that he never imagined his cycling career would end so soon.
He spent three seasons as a development rider for Soudal Quick-Step between 2023 and 2025, achieving notable victories and stage wins. The Belgian cyclist expressed his disappointment in not finding a team for the upcoming season, but remained grateful for the memories and experiences the sport had provided. Hulsmans stated that cycling would be saying goodbye to him, though he acknowledged that new opportunities lie ahead.
Written by urgent.news from Cycling Weekly's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.