For days now, rumors about Egan Bernal's future and a possible retirement have been circulating, fueled by the fact that the Colombian from Netcompany Ineos has essentially closed his season with the Tour de France. So many rumors, so many hypotheses, so many speculations that have prompted Bernal to make his voice heard, through an Instagram post.

"I wanted to share with you some reflections about the phase of my life and career I'm currently in. First of all, I have a contract with the team that runs until the end of 2029, and for now I intend to start next season. After so many years dedicated to cycling, I feel I've given the best years of my life to this sport, both as a cyclist and as a person.

I've made sacrifices I never could have imagined, I've won races that once seemed impossible dreams, and I've experienced both incredible highs and moments of profound difficulty; yet today I can look back with serenity, proud of everything I've done and achieved, without regrets.

Over time, I've also learned that this sport isn't just about results, victories or sacrifices. It's also about enjoying the journey and finding the motivation to continue doing what you love.

This year, I decided to end my season after the Tour de France. I felt the need to take some time for myself, to rest, disconnect a bit and rediscover that sense of calm that sometimes gets lost in the relentless pace of competition.

I've spoken with the team and the people around me, and we're all on the same page: I want to give myself the time and space necessary to face what comes with the same conviction and dedication I've always had.

I don't know exactly what the coming years will bring, and I don't think I need to know everything right now, anyway. Of one thing I'm certain: as long as I continue to compete, I want to do it with the conviction that I still have much to offer. It's not just about continuing out of inertia, it's about having the motivation, the physical and mental strength and the drive to remain competitive and make a difference.

For now, I want to enjoy the present, live this moment with peace of mind and let time take its course".