John Degenkolb at 37: A Veteran Cyclist Reflects on Legacy, Team Dynamics and the Future of Pro Cycling
John Degenkolb, now 37, is entering what could be his 16th professional season. The German rider for Team Picnic-PostNL is approaching a pivotal moment in his career, balancing continued ambition with the realities of aging in a demanding sport. Despite questions about retirement, Degenkolb remains focused and, as he describes it, “a little euphoric” after a strong start to the 2026 season at the Algarve Rundfahrt.
A Family of Cyclists and a Legacy of Wins
Cycling is clearly in Degenkolb’s blood. His family boasts a substantial collection of bicycles, a number that has grown with his son Leo’s burgeoning cycling career. Leo reportedly won over half of the races he entered last year, demonstrating a natural talent for the sport. Degenkolb keeps many of his own race-winning bikes, not in storage, but displayed as reminders of past triumphs – including the bike from his memorable, rain-soaked 2021 Paris-Roubaix race.
Degenkolb’s career highlights are extensive. He’s a winner of stages in all three Grand Tours – the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España – with ten stage wins and the points classification at the Vuelta a España to his name. He also secured victories in prestigious one-day races like Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix in 2015, and Gent–Wevelgem in 2014.
Balancing Competition and Mentorship
As one of the older riders in the WorldTour, Degenkolb is increasingly taking on a mentorship role within Team Picnic-PostNL. He shares his experience and expertise with younger teammates, contributing to their development in all aspects of racing. His team trusts him, allowing for a tailored race program that prioritizes his peak performance for key events like Paris–Roubaix, a race he intends to target strongly in 2026.
Concerns About the Growing Divide in Professional Cycling
Despite his positive outlook, Degenkolb expresses concern about the widening gap between the top-tier and smaller teams in professional cycling. The increasing financial disparity creates an uneven playing field, impacting everything from training facilities to the quality of support staff. He believes this imbalance needs to be addressed to ensure the long-term health and competitiveness of the sport. In 2025, Team U.A.E. Achieved 97 victories, although Degenkolb’s team managed only three, illustrating the scale of the issue.
He worries that smaller teams will struggle to remain competitive, affecting the quality of training and resources available to riders. This trend, he believes, could ultimately harm the overall appeal and integrity of professional cycling.
A Continued Passion for the Ride
Degenkolb maintains a pragmatic approach, even enjoying simple pleasures like riding a vintage folding bike for trips to the train station. He’s focused on the present, enjoying his form and preparing for the challenges ahead. He recently retrieved a bike he loaned to a historical museum, finding a place for it amongst his collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are John Degenkolb’s biggest achievements?
A: His biggest wins include the 2015 Milan-San Remo and the 2015 Paris-Roubaix, as well as stage wins in all three Grand Tours and the points classification in the Vuelta a España.
Q: What team does John Degenkolb currently ride for?
A: He currently rides for Team Picnic-PostNL.
Q: Is John Degenkolb considering retirement?
A: While the question has been raised, Degenkolb is currently focused on competing and feels in good form.
Q: What concerns does Degenkolb have about the future of cycling?
A: He is concerned about the growing financial disparity between top-tier and smaller teams, which he believes could harm the competitiveness of the sport.
Did you know? John Degenkolb has won stages in all three Grand Tours – a rare feat in professional cycling.
Pro Tip: Maintaining a balance between competition and mentorship is crucial for veteran athletes in any sport. Sharing experience can be as rewarding as achieving personal victories.
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