Michael Hepburn will no longer be seen in the cycling peloton in 2026. The Australian has decided to put an end to his career at the age of 34. Hepburn can look back on an extraordinarily successful cycling journey: on the track, he became world champion no fewer than six times.
Hepburn was part of an incredibly talented and successful generation of Australian track cyclists, including Sam Welsford, Callum Scotson, Jack Bobridge, Miles Scotson, Rohan Dennis, and Alex Edmondson. Miles Scotson and Edmondson also recently announced they will not return to the peloton.
Hepburn won four world titles in team pursuit with his Australian track teammates, in 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2014. He was also twice the best in the world in the individual pursuit: in 2012 he won his first individual world title, and a year later he successfully defended his crown. An Olympic gold medal proved just out of reach, but Hepburn took silver in both London (2012) and Rio (2016).
He is also known for his long career on the road. He raced for no less than fourteen seasons with Jayco AlUla and its predecessors. More importantly: the strong rider was there from the very beginning when the team was founded in 2012.
Hepburn as world champion in the pursuit - photo: Fotopersburo Cor Vos
As a time trialist, he stepped into the professional ranks with very strong credentials—Hepburn was U23 time trial vice world champion in 2013 and 2014—but this did not foreshadow major individual successes among the pros. However, over the years Hepburn developed into a highly valued domestique, road captain, and culture bearer.
"Cycling has given me so much. I have traveled the world and met the most amazing people. I met my wife through the sport and we have two beautiful children," he shared on Instagram. "Now, it is time to give back to my family. Although this chapter is closed, my love for the sport will always remain, and I hope to stay involved in the coming years."
View this post on Instagram
Michael Hepburn| Year | Team |
|---|---|
| 2025 | |
| 2024 | |
| 2023 | |
| 2022 | |
| 2021 |
