Olympic Champion Laura Kenny Announces Retirement from Cycling
Britain's most successful female Olympian, Laura Kenny, has announced her retirement from professional cycling. The five-time Olympic gold medalist, known for her achievements on the track, shared her decision in an Instagram post, stating:
"Thank you cycling for everything you've given me - including a husband and our growing family! Having people say I have inspired women and girls to get active and get on a bike means the world to me. Thanks to Team GB, British Cycling and all the partners who have supported my journey. A special thanks to every team mate I have had over the years and of course to my family for being the best support unit I could ever have wished for. It's now time to move on but stay following for the next chapter."
"I always knew deep down I would know when the right time was"
Kenny's career includes seven World Championship titles and a string of Olympic victories across the London, Rio, and Tokyo Games. Married to former cyclist Jason Kenny, the most decorated British Olympian, she reflected on the challenges of balancing motherhood with her sporting pursuits, particularly after welcoming her second child in 2023.
In an exclusive interview with BBC Breakfast, Kenny expressed her deep-seated feelings about retirement, acknowledging the sacrifices required to pursue professional cycling while prioritising her family. "I always knew deep down I would know when the right time was," she revealed, highlighting the emotional weight of leaving her children and family behind during competitions. She went on to say that winning wasn’t giving her the energy she wanted anymore, and that she wanted to stay at home with her children.
What's next?
Despite her initial aspirations to compete in the Paris Olympics, Kenny's decision to retire comes amidst logistical challenges and a shifting focus towards spending more time with her family. Although she doesn’t have any plans for the future set in stone, she has said that she is “open to doing anything and everything” after retirement. Kenny is looking to be at the upcoming summer Olympics in some capacity, and has expressed interest in helping young people get the same opportunities she has had.
