Reigning cyclocross world champion Fem van Empel has decided to put her professional cycling career on hold for an indefinite period, Visma | Lease a Bike announced in a press release. After a period of intensive discussions and careful consideration, it was also agreed that Van Empel will leave the WorldTeam as of January 1.
There had been silence around Van Empel in recent weeks, following her sudden withdrawal from the Koppenbergcross, which raised many questions. "During that race, my body and mind gave a very clear signal. I’m someone who doesn’t give up easily, but unconsciously a decision had already formed then. This feels like the right step for me now," she explains.
Van Empel concluded that for now, it’s better to take her career in a different direction. On one hand, by temporarily not racing, and on the other, by mutually agreeing to terminate her contract with Visma | Lease a Bike. "This is a well-considered choice that I feel good about. At the moment, I lack both the motivation and the joy I’ve had in cycling for many years. I wanted to be honest and fair to the team about that as well. For now, this is the best option," Van Empel shares.
"It feels like time for a new chapter. I am very grateful for all the support I’ve received from the team, my family, and the fans, and I look forward to what the future brings," said the world champion.
The past year was about finding balance for Van Empel. In March, she consciously chose to step back from the sport with a view to her mental wellbeing and physical complaints. After this period of rest, she decided to no longer focus on road racing and instead aimed for a return to cyclocross at the start of the cross season. That initially went well with wins in Woerden and Heerde, but the turning point came at the Koppenbergcross.
The 23-year-old Van Empel has emerged over recent years as the best cyclocross rider of her generation. During that period, she won fifty races, including three consecutive world titles and European championships.
