Almost a year ago, the Costa Rican declared on this site that he wanted to continue cycling at the highest level. Today, however, he announced his retirement with immediate effect. Unexpected retirement of Andrey Amador.
photo: Cor Vos
“Tico’s” change of decision is due to the numerous physical problems he had this year, especially when he was hit in Barcelona halfway through. At 38 years old, and with 16 campaigns in the top category, the cyclist has said enough.
Unfortunately for him, his professional end was completely opposite to the wish expressed in December 2023. “The nice thing would be to put an end to this thing when I think about it,” he indicated then, in addition to his aim of transmitting experiences to the little ones.
An expert runner like few others, Amador had his moment in Movistar, when he also fought for the general classification of the Giro d’Italia. The likeable Central American will be missed by the group, where he was able to reinvent himself as a solid wingman and road captain.
Surely the straw that broke the camel’s back was the accident in May, when he slipped and his bicycle ended up right under a truck. Considering this, the fractures he suffered were few and he and his family decided not to continue taking risks when he already had a long and successful career.
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How might Andrey Amador’s retirement affect the future of cycling, particularly for younger athletes?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Cycling Expert on Andrey Amador’s Retirement
Time.news Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent retirement of Andrey Amador. This announcement certainly took many by surprise, especially considering his previous declarations about wanting to continue cycling at the highest level. What do you think led to this sudden change?
Cycling Expert: Good morning! Yes, Amador’s retirement is indeed unexpected. From my understanding, the decision stems primarily from the physical toll that the sport has taken on him over the years. After suffering serious injuries this year, including that frightening accident in Barcelona, it became clear that his body just couldn’t keep up anymore. At 38, with sixteen years in the elite circuit, it’s understandable that he’d consider his long-term health.
Editor: You mentioned the accident in May, where he was struck by a truck. Can you elaborate on how such incidents could impact a professional athlete’s decision to retire?
Expert: Certainly. For an athlete, injuries can be both physical and psychological. After such a near-fatal accident, an athlete might reassess their career priorities. Although Amador sustained relatively few fractures, the reality of being that close to serious harm can be very alarming. There’s also a mental aspect—dealing with fear and trauma can significantly affect one’s performance and motivation. It’s not just about physical strength; mental resilience plays a crucial role in elite athletics.
Editor: Andrey Amador had a storied career, especially known for his time with Movistar and his competitive spirit in the Giro d’Italia. In what ways do you think he will be remembered in the cycling community?
Expert: Amador was a remarkable cyclist, not just for his talent but also for his role as a mentor and team player. He was renowned for his adaptability, ability to support teammates, and capacity to challenge himself in major tours. His retirement leaves a gap, especially in the realm of experienced guides for younger athletes. He expressed a desire to pass on his knowledge to the upcoming generation, which shows his commitment to the sport beyond just his personal career.
Editor: Last December, he expressed hopes of finishing his career on his own terms, which is a sentiment many athletes share. How important is it for athletes to have that control over their careers?
Expert: It’s incredibly important. The autonomy to choose when and how to exit the sport can greatly influence an athlete’s legacy. For Amador, wanting to retire on a high note reflects his deep respect for the sport and his personal journey. Athletes often face pressures to continue, even when they’re not physically or mentally prepared, so taking control of that decision is vital for their well-being.
Editor: Looking ahead, what do you think is next for Amador and for the professional cycling scene in general?
Expert: For Amador, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him transition into coaching or mentoring roles, especially given his interest in sharing experiences with younger riders. As for the cycling scene, his retirement underscores the ever-present challenges that come with aging in a demanding sport. It could serve as a wake-up call for teams to focus on athlete health and longevity. Cycling is evolving, and perhaps we will see a greater emphasis on the well-being of riders both during and after their competitive careers.
Editor: Thank you for your insights! Amador’s retirement marks the end of an era for many fans, but it sounds like his influence will continue in new ways. We appreciate your time and expertise in shedding light on this significant moment in cycling.
Expert: Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss the nuances of our sport, especially when it involves such a respected figure as Andrey Amador.