Another rider forced to stop due to heart problems: this is Lars van den Berg, a twenty-six-year-old Dutch cyclist from Groupama FDJ. The French team itself announces this with a statement that reads: "With a deep sense of emotion, the Groupama-FDJ Cycling Team announces today that Lars van den Berg is ending his professional career due to a cardiological contraindication to high-level cycling. This decision was made in consultation with doctors and in the interest of his health. A team rider for four seasons, Lars has left his mark in our history with his commitment, professionalism, and team spirit. The entire team wishes him all the best for the future in this new chapter of his life".

Van Den Berg himself comments: "Today I turn the page on my professional cycling career, an intense adventure filled with challenges and unforgettable moments. It's difficult to accept having to set aside my dreams: the dream of winning a race, the dream of racing in the same team as my brother... But every end marks a new beginning. I want to express my deep gratitude to my team, the staff, my teammates, and everyone who supported me over the years. While I hang up my racing number, my passion for cycling will remain intact. I will always be a fervent supporter of our team and the sport that has given me so much".

And Marc Madiot, general manager of the transalpine team, adds: "Lars was a pillar of our team, both for his performances and his human qualities. A discreet guy who earned everyone's trust to the point of becoming indispensable. He is a fantastic person, and the team is proud to have shared this journey with him. This is a difficult moment for him and for all of us, but health is the absolute priority. Sport is just a chapter, and now he is starting a new one".

Van den Berg turned professional in 2021 with the French team, after spending one season with the Devo formation. He had no victories in his career, but he competed in the Giro d'Italia once and the Vuelta twice. This season he debuted at the Tour de la Provence, then tackled the Classic Var and the Tour des Alpes Maritimes, all regularly completed. On February 24th, he withdrew from the Faun Ardeche Classic and the next day did not start in the Faun Drome Classic for which he was registered. And today, the page turns, the career closes, and a new life begins.