Geraint Thomas, the celebrated Tour de France champion, recently concluded his illustrious cycling career with an emotional farewell at the Tour of Britain. The event, held at Cardiff Castle, was attended by thousands of fans who came to honor the double Olympic gold medallist and three-time world champion.

A New Chapter Begins

After decades of rigorous training and competition, Thomas is now looking forward to a new chapter in his life. Reflecting on his final race, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to finish in Cardiff, a place close to his heart. "It was just amazing to finish in Cardiff," Thomas said. "The organisers making the finish in Cardiff was the stuff of dreams. It was unreal riding through Birchgrove, where I grew up, by my mum and dad's house, past Maindy (Thomas' first cycling club), there's no better way to finish."

Future Endeavors

Thomas has hinted at a potential role with his former team, Ineos Grenadiers, where he aims to share his extensive experience with younger riders. "I feel like I've got a lot of experience to offer there," he mentioned. Additionally, Thomas is eager to explore other sports, including the possibility of participating in an Ironman. "I've bigged myself up about doing an Ironman, but now I'm starting to regret that! I'd still love to do one. I wouldn't be taking it too seriously," he quipped.

Personal Reflections

Thomas also opened up about the camaraderie he will miss from his cycling days. "I think the camaraderie in the team, when you're all in it together out on the road and afterwards as well, when you debrief and you're talking about what happened. It sounds a bit corny but it's sort of like a band of brothers type of feel to it. I'll definitely miss that," he shared.

Family and Homecoming

Looking ahead, Thomas is excited about spending more time with his family and moving back to Cardiff. "Definitely being around more with my family, doing some different sports, moving back to Cardiff as well in a year or so," he said. This marks a significant change for Thomas, who has lived on the Cote d'Azur for 13 years.

Geraint Thomas' retirement marks the end of an era in cycling, but it also heralds the beginning of new adventures and opportunities for the legendary athlete.