๐ช๐ธ
#LaVuelta24
๐๐๐๐ซ ๐๐จ๐๐๐ซ๐ญ, โค๏ธ
And then, suddenly your cycling career is over. Forever. Eighteen wonderful years, filled with many highs and lows. You entered the team as a top talent and quickly displayed your qualities. In a time when Dutch cycling was in a slump, you were the bright spot the cycling nation so desperately needed. You inspired little children to become cyclists. With your undeniable skills, your ever-present smile, and your ability to win, you gave the people hope.
Even more impressive, and something we will never forget, is your immense resilience. The wrist, ribs, back, shoulder, and elbow injuries in the Tour, the heart arrhythmias, the complications during your wifeโs pregnancy, and the passing of your father. Life didnโt always smile upon you, but you kept fighting. Fighting hard. And each time, you bounced back, strengthened by your beautiful family. Because of that, you achieved incredible results in the Tour de France and the Vuelta a Espaรฑa (including the red jersey), as well as in one-day races in Italy and Canada.
You transformed from a GC contender into a true team player. You helped others win and put your own ambitions aside. And that, Robert, is what makes you such a remarkable person. You bring out the best in others. It was a privilege to have you among us for eighteen years. If we ever need to describe the ideal teammate, two words would be enough: your first and your last name.
Congratulations on your wonderful career, Robert. Something you can be very proud of. ๐๐ผ
Enjoy the time ahead with your family and your life off the bike, although we know you wonโt stay off it for long.
Forever Off Season!
๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐๐๐ฆ. ๐
