Retirement & Legacy
In October 2022, Alejandro Valverde retired from professional cycling after 20 years, wrapping off his career at Il Lombardia. During his 20-year career, he won the 2009 Vuelta a España and led the 2014 WorldTour overall. Valverde retired from cycling to become an advisor.
Maintaining Ties With the Team
At the start of 2023, Valverde became an ambassador and advisor for his previous squad. As a “liaison officer,” he aids the team’s gravel racing strategy. This transfer allowed Valverde to stay connected to the squad, representing them in competitive and promotional events across Spain.
| Year | Event | Description |
|---|---|---|
| October 2021 | Retirement announcement | Declared 2022 as final competitive year |
| October 19, 2022 | Final race at Il Lombardia | Concluded 20 years of elite cycling |
| Start of 2023 | Ambassador role | Transitioned to advisory position within the team structure |
| April 2023 | Gravel racing participation | Joined the Gravel Squad, competing in Almería and Girona |
Role in National Cycling
When offered the Spanish national team coaching job, Valverde’s cycling engagement expanded. Valverde took over as national coach after Pascual Momparler was fired in 2024, developing Spain’s road racing talent strategically.
| Timeline | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| End of 2024 | National coach dismissal | Pascual Momparler dismissed |
| December 18, 2024 | Coaching negotiation begins | Valverde approached for national team coach position |
| December 28, 2024 | Confirmation | RFEC confirms negotiation underway |
| January 22, 2025 | Coach appointment | Valverde officially becomes national coach |
Roles & Responsibilities
Valverde seamlessly balances team and national advisory duties with gravel racing. He is a renowned figure across Spain, contributing to the team’s and national program’s achievements on and off the bike.
| Role | Timeframe | Locations | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro Rider | 2005–2022 | International races | Active competition |
| Ambassador / Liaison | Since 2023 (1-year deal) | Almería, Girona, Tres Cantos | Representation in gravel and sponsor events |
| National Team Coach | 2025–2028 (4-year deal) | Spain (Various locations) | Leading national road program, developing talent |
Numbers, Contracts, & Commitments
Valverde’s competitive and post-retirement victories and commitments are evident. His national coaching contract runs through 2028, while his ambassadorial term starts in 2023.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Professional Career | 20 years (2002–2022), 18 with team |
| Career Victories | 133 wins, including 2009 Vuelta |
| Ambassador Contract | 1-year, starting 2023 |
| National Coach Contract | 4-year, up to 2028 |
What This Means
- For the Team: Retaining Valverde strengthens their brand presence, making him the face of events and promotional activities.
- For Spanish Cycling: His national coaching appointment brings valuable experience and leadership to advance the country’s cycling agenda.
- For Valverde: This phase allows him to continue influencing the sport, fostering new talent while engaging actively in gravel competitions.
FAQ
What prompted Valverde’s retirement?
After reaching major goals, he decided to retire from riding.
What role does Valverde play now?
He attends events and advises on strategy as an ambassador and advisor.
In gravel racing, how is Valverde involved?
He competes frequently in gravel events, displaying his skills outside traditional road racing.
What are his national coaching duties?
Valverde oversees talent development and strategy planning for the national road program.
How does Valverde affect the team?
His experience increases the team’s competitive and promotional visibility and effectiveness.
