Heart problem forces Johan Vansummeren to retire

2011 Paris-Roubaix winner Johan Vansummeren has retired from professional cycling with immediate effect due to a heart condition.

The 35-year-old’s AG2R-La Mondiale team broke the news in a press release this afternoon, with the Belgian not having raced since February, since when he has undergone medical treatment.

"I am really sad to stop my career because of medical reasons but my health is more important than cycling ambitions,” said Vansummeren.

“I spent 13 exceptional seasons in professional cycling that allowed me to make a living from my passion.

I did tremendous physical efforts to ride among the best riders as well.

“I even had the benefit to win Paris-Roubaix which was the race I dreamt of. For sure, this victory will remain as my best memory in professional cycling.”

While his win in the Queen of the Classics surprised many, Vansummeren, like this year’s winner Mat Hayman, was a rider who had achieved a couple of top ten placings in the previous three editions.

Immediately after dismounting his bike after the biggest victory of his career, he proposed to his girlfriend Jasmine, now his wife.

Vansummeren added: “I also would like to thank my family and friends who have always been there for me in both good and bad moments of my career.”

AG2R-La Mondiale team manager Vincent Lavenu said it had been “an honour to count him among our team.”

He went on: “I am really sorry to know that Johan has to leave our team in such conditions.

“It is never easy for a rider to put an end to his career due to medical reasons but, doubtlessly, there is no other choice to make.

“He has to protect his personal health above all. To me Johan in a top rider and a man who has great human qualities.

“I wish to my friend the best for his recovery and his new career,” he added.