Thank you, Robert Gesink,
Thank you for everything we’ve experienced together over nearly two decades. In your early years, you quickly made your mark and established yourself among the world’s top riders of that era. You paved the way for a new generation of Dutch talent, reigniting hope after some darker years and, even better, you made the country dream again. The Netherlands had its national cycling hero back, and you became an example for many.
Countless magnificent results have defined your career. The wins in Canada and Italy, your impressive finishes in the Tour de France, and even a stage win in the Vuelta a España—the race where it all began for you as a grand tour rider, and ended this season.
What do world-class riders like Jonas Vingegaard, Wout van Aert, Sepp Kuss, Steven Kruijswijk, Wilco Kelderman, and Primož Roglič have in common? Each of them gained invaluable experience from you, Robert, and learned the finer details of the sport through your guidance.
In the latter half of your career, you demonstrated to the world like no one else that cycling is truly a team sport. There wasn’t a race where you didn’t sacrifice yourself for a teammate. Relentless pulling at the front, chasing down breakaways—all so that a friend or teammate could take the victory. Their wins were your wins too, and it’s fair to say every team dreams of having a Robert Gesink.
We are deeply honored to have had you with us for 18 seasons. If your long and rich career symbolizes a Grand Tour, then you led the peloton through countless stages, claimed a few victories, and now, at the end, stand atop the podium wearing the leader’s jersey. It has been an incredible journey together. Enjoy your time with your family, and keep sharing those beautiful photos—you have another talent beyond cycling. 😉📸
You will forever be in our hearts and always welcome within our team, Yellow B. legend. 🐝
