Jos van Emden Ends Professional Cycling Career at Paris-Tours, Per Strand Hagenes Makes Transition to WorldTour

Jos van Emden, the 38-year-old Dutch cyclist, is preparing to end his professional career at the upcoming Paris-Tours race. Reflecting on his decision, Van Emden states, “My body and mind are telling me that my career as a professional cyclist is over. I hope to be at a good level again at Paris-Tours and end my career on a high note.” Despite not expecting it, Van Emden has received many compliments from his peers in the peloton, which has made this transition easier for him.

Van Emden will soon take on a new role with Team Jumbo-Visma Women as a sports director. He shares, “I’ve been thinking about becoming a sports director for a while. The fact that I can debut in this position with the women’s team is my best option.” He believes that managing riders who were once his teammates could have been challenging, but his new relationship with the women’s team will provide a fresh start.

Meanwhile, 20-year-old Norwegian cyclist Per Strand Hagenes is on the brink of joining the WorldTour. Despite still being part of the development team, Hagenes has gained valuable racing experience this season, winning three races. Reflecting on his dual role, Hagenes says, “When I ride with the World Tour team, my main goal is to help my teammates. When I ride with the Development Team, my main goal is to win. Both teams allow me to try things out. It’s a good and educational combination.”

Van Emden expresses his enthusiasm for the guidance being provided to young talents such as Hagenes. He believes that the experience of older riders is valuable in the development of younger cyclists. “I know it is very nice to be guided by the older guys. I’m not consciously involved, but I automatically help the younger guys by giving them tips,” he explains.

Looking forward to next season, Hagenes is excited to begin his professional career and hopes to perform well in the classics. He shares, “The main goal is to learn a lot. I hope to get the chance to ride some classics in the spring. These are the races where I can be at my best.”

In addition to Van Emden and Hagenes, Team Jumbo-Visma will be represented by Christophe Laporte, Dylan Van Baarle, Edoardo Affini, and Lars Boven at the upcoming Paris-Tours race.