Pello Bilbao chose the sixth and final stage of the Itzulia Basque Country to announce his retirement from professional cycling at the end of the 2026 season.

The 36-year-old Bilbao turned professional in 2011 with Euskaltel-Euskadi and boasts a long and brilliant career at the highest levels. Since joining Bahrain Victorious in 2020, he has become a cornerstone of the team and has completed seven seasons with the squad.
With several more months of racing ahead before hanging up his shoes, Bilbao leaves behind an impressive palmares. Among his victories stand out two stages at the Giro d'Italia and a memorable stage at the Tour de France. Beyond stage wins, he has been one of the most consistent riders of his generation in general classifications, regularly finishing on the podium at the UAE Tour and achieving top-ten finishes at both the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France on multiple occasions.

«When I think back on my career, I would say that, first and foremost, I was truly fortunate to be born in the Basque Country, in a place where cycling is so special. There is a deep cycling culture, with so many people involved in schools and races, all working to create opportunities. This environment allowed me to enjoy the sport, to give my best and to prove what I was capable of. In many ways, it gave me an easier path to becoming a professional compared to most riders in the peloton. For me, at the beginning, it was always like a game and everything happened very quickly. Of course, I needed time to adapt to the professional lifestyle, but I have never regretted any decision I made along the way».

And further: «I went from being an unknown cyclist to achieving great results in the most important races. Winning at the Tour de France is every cyclist's dream. That moment showed me how intense and thrilling this sport can be. In fact, during the 2023 Grand Départ, some of my most beautiful and most painful memories intertwined. It was a difficult period, but from that difficulty came one of the victories and most beautiful memories of my career. Reaching that milestone gave me a sense of fulfillment. I have never considered myself someone obsessed with results or palmares. What I truly love about cycling is its creative side: the ability to create something, to put on a show. Of course, results matter, especially for the team, but I will always cherish the invaluable moments like the one I shared with Damiano Caruso at the Giro d'Italia: attacking together, fighting for victory and, in the end, helping him reach a special goal. These are the moments I will never forget. What I will miss most are the emotions, especially those we share. Cycling is not just an individual sport, but about creating something together».