Noorderwijk (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Sanne Cant retired after 15+ years in cyclo-cross, ending her career at the Internationale Sluitingsprijs in Oostmalle. She won 3 world, 3 European, and 15 Belgian titles. Fans celebrated her legacy at Café Welkom.
Sanne Cant has retired from professional cycling after more than 15 years in cyclo-cross. She raced for the last time at the Internationale Sluitingsprijs in Oostmalle. She mentioned that she gave her best but did not make it to the podium.
In the last sprint, Hélène Clauzel from France took third place. Some fans felt sad, but Cant stay positive. She understands that competition can be surprising. Many people cheered for her at the finish line. Cant has won 3 world titles, 3 European titles, and 15 Belgian national titles in a row.
It was a bit of a surprise in the sprint,
Cant says herself.
I did everything I could to get on the podium. But suddenly the French were there. Too bad, that’s all I can say about it.
How did fans celebrate Sanne Cant’s retirement from cyclo-cross?
After her final race, Sanne Cant celebrated her career at Café Welkom in Noorderwijk. She was surrounded by family, friends, and loyal fans. The café was full of people who had supported her for years. Many fans were emotional as they honoured her achievements. The night included speeches and toasts in her honour.
Cant joked that her first task would be to clean her bike and rest after the celebration. She has not shared any specific plans for the future but hinted at staying in cycling, maybe through coaching or advocacy.
I was very displeased,
says fan Jan Anthonissen.
Hélène Clauzel took the podium from her.
Another person present agrees with fan Jan.
If you know that it is the last match of such an icon, then you grant her that podium place.
According to officials, Sanne Cant has been the best Belgian cyclo-cross rider for the past 15 years. Jan Anthonissen, a loyal supporter, talks about her great impact on the sport. He says,
What she has brought us in the past is amazing. She is the best Belgian cyclo-cross rider we have ever known.
They mentioned that for Jan and many others, her retirement is a chance to think about her influence on cycling in Belgium. Even though her career is over, celebrations in her honour will continue, with friends and fans coming together.
Cant’s fans respect her choice to retire. They feel sad but understand her decision. Ria Ghoos, a long-time supporter, shares her thoughts. She says Cant was not only talented but also kind.
She helped young cyclists and stayed humble,
Ria added,
I don’t have to be anywhere tomorrow, I’m retired.
