Nicolas Roche reveals retirement from 17-year professional cycling career

"I never believed them until that day arrived in August for me. For the first time in my life, I woke up one morning before a race knowing it was time to do something else."

Nicolas Roche represented Ireland at four Olympics, three times alongside his cousin Dan Martin, who is also retiring this month. Picture: Martin Rickett/PA

Nicolas Roche has brought his professional cycling career to an end after 17 years, 24 Grand Tours, and over 1,270 race days.

Roche, the son of 1987 Tour de France champion Stephen, will stay involved in cycling in a consultancy role with his management company, Trinity Sports, and his Roca sports shops.