Canadian cyclist Michael Woods has confirmed his retirement from professional road cycling, effective at the end of the 2025 season. After twelve years of competing at the highest levels, Woods cited the physical toll and personal sacrifices as key reasons for his decision. He announced his retirement through his team, Israel-Premier Tech, stating, “As they say, though, all good things must come to an end.”
While Woods plans to retire from professional cycling, he conveyed a desire to remain active in the sport, hinting at new pursuits within endurance sports. “I still have big ambitions and plans for the coming years that will involve exploring new arenas in endurance sports,” he said. Fans can expect to see him compete in several events leading up to his retirement, including the Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec and the Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal, and possibly the World Championships.
Reflecting on his career, Woods has openly discussed the challenges he faced during his time in the peloton. His blog during this year’s Tour de France highlighted the dangers associated with professional cycling, revealing his experiences with injuries, including a fractured collarbone earlier this year. He also had to withdraw from the Tour de Suisse due to a lung infection, an event that further underscored the risks of the sport.
At the age of 38, Woods acknowledged that the relentless demands of professional cycling have taken a significant toll on his health and personal life. “The time I have spent away from my family has been long,” he admitted. As a father, he recognized the conflict between being a top athlete and maintaining a family life. He recounted the peculiarities of his routine, such as avoiding contact with his children before races to prevent illness and often sleeping apart from his family to ensure optimal rest.
Woods began his cycling career later than many of his peers, transitioning from a successful background as a world-class runner. He entered competitive cycling at the age of 25, quickly rising through the ranks to join the Cannondale WorldTour team in 2016. Throughout his career, he achieved considerable success, including three stage wins at the Vuelta a España in 2018, 2020, and 2024, as well as a stage victory at the 2023 Tour de France. His aggressive racing style made him a formidable competitor in the hilly Classics, and he earned a bronze medal at the World Championships in 2018.
“My journey from a world-class runner to becoming one of the best cyclists in the world is something I am damn proud of,” Woods stated. He credits his success to the unwavering support from his wife, coach Paulo Saldanha, and the broader Ottawa cycling community. He expressed gratitude for the encouragement received throughout his career, especially from those who believed in him during challenging times.
As he prepares for his final racing season, Woods is set to leave a significant mark on the cycling world. His story reflects not only the triumphs of elite athletes but also the sacrifices they make behind the scenes. With a farewell tour in 2025, fans and fellow cyclists will have the opportunity to celebrate his contributions to the sport and his remarkable journey from a gifted runner to a prominent cyclist.