Belgian rider Sep Vanmarcke to retire immediately from professional cycling due to medical reasons

Israel – Premier Tech announced on Friday that Sep Vanmarcke will retire from cycling immediately due to medical reasons.

During his 14-year career, the 34-year-old cyclist competed for various teams, with the most recent two and a half years being dedicated to Israel – Premier Tech. Throughout this period, he achieved notable victories such as Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, Bretagne Classic, the inaugural Maryland Classic, and secured a place on the podium in races like Paris-Roubaix and Ronde van Vlaanderen.
According to IPT, after detecting an abnormally high heart rate detected while on the bike, Vanmarcke underwent testing including a cardiac MRI which then confirmed that there was a presence of scar tissue.

Cardiac complications

Due to the significant danger of experiencing additional cardiac complications due to the presence of scar tissue, Vanmarcke will be unable to pursue his professional cycling career any further.
In a statement, the Belgian spoke of the abrupt end to his career.

“When I pinned a number for the first time back in 2003, I never dared to dream about having a professional career. I ended up living that dream for 14 years, with highs and lows. And I wasn’t the super talent, but with dedication and hard work I was able to compete with the best riders in the biggest races for years. Also, I got to know many people and cultures all over the world and have been to places I never heard of before,” he said.

“To be honest, I would have liked to have raced at the highest level for a few more years and achieve more great performances together with IPT in the biggest races. It is very sad and painful to announce the end of my career in this way,”  Vanmarcke added. “At the same time, I am grateful that the problems with my heart were discovered in time. I’m going to take the time now to be with my family, to accept the situation and think about what I want to do in the future. My whole life has been all about cycling. Cycling will always be my passion.”