Tour of Turkey: Retiring Niemiec set to close career in Istanbul

It is the end of the line for Przemysław Niemiec. The 38-year-old Polish climber will retire following the sixth and final stage of the 54th Presidential Tour of Turkey in Istanbul along the same streets he won his last career victory two years ago.

The UAE-Team Emirates road captain soloed to an opening stage win of the 52nd edition while riding for team’s previous incarnation as Lampre-Merida.

“This is my last race after 17 years of professional and I am very happy as in Turkey was my last victory in 2016,” an exhausted Niemiec told Eurosport after working on the front for 180km to ride teammate and last year’s winner Diego Ulissi (ITA) onto the podium on Stage 4 (206.9km) on Friday. “I am very happy with my career and thank you for my fans, thank you very much.”

When asked of his favourite memories throughout a career that has spanned nearly two decades, Niemiec reflected on the many cycling greats he has had the privilege of racing alongside.

“I am happy because my 17 years, I ride with [Marco] Pantani, [Jan] Ullrich, very big riders, then second generation Paolo Bettini and company and now third generation from the young riders,” he explained. “After 17 year I am very happy.”

With 13 pro wins to his credit, the stage win at the 2014 Vuelta a España and a sixth overall at the 2013 Giro d’Italia quickly come to mind as his favourites.

“Maybe the stage of the Vuelta a España and sixth place in Giro d’Italia because of [Michele] Scarponi — I will remember those for a long, long time,” said Niemiec, who also has overall victories at the 2005 Tour de Slovénie and 2009 Route du Sud, as well as stage wins in Giro del Trentino, Coppi e Bartali, Route du Sud, Slovénie and Turkey.

As for what’s next Niemiec, it’s anyone’s guess. But for now, it is time to spend with family.

“I don’t know from this moment,” admitted Niemiec regarding his future off the bike. “Stay in the house with my children and maybe next year work in cycling, but I don’t know at this moment.

“I only know that our job in Turkey is not yet complete.”

For full stage and race results, click here.