'My body said stop' – 24-year-old pro cyclist forced to retire amid health struggle

Norwegian professional cyclist Anne Dorthe Ysland has announced her retirement at the age of 24 due to ongoing health issues related to ulcerative colitis. Diagnosed with the chronic bowel condition in late 2022, Ysland had initially managed her symptoms with medication but found that treatments eventually ceased to be effective. After attempting to continue competing, including starting the 2026 season at the Tour Down Under, worsening symptoms and medical advice led her to make the difficult decision to step away from professional cycling. Ysland’s struggle with ulcerative colitis has been severe, involving intense stomach pain and bloody diarrhoea, compounded by the immunosuppressive effects of her medication. Despite her efforts to maintain performance levels, she found herself unable to keep up during races and training, culminating in a turning point following hospital examinations that revealed the disease had progressed significantly. She acknowledged that while medication managed symptoms, it did not halt the underlying condition, forcing her to prioritise her health over her career. Throughout her time with the Uno-X Mobility team, which she joined as a teenager in 2022, Ysland was known for her resilience and positive spirit. Team manager Thor Hushovd paid tribute to her character, highlighting her infectious smile and unwavering support for her teammates even in the face of adversity. Ysland’s best results include a sixth place at Binche Chimay Binche and 13th at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, as well as participation in the inaugural Tour de France Femmes. The retirement marks a significant moment not only for Ysland but also for the women’s cycling community, which loses a promising young talent to a debilitating illness. Her decision underscores the challenges athletes face when managing chronic health conditions and the importance of listening to one’s body. Moving forward, Ysland expressed gratitude for the support she received and acceptance that stepping back from cycling was the right choice for her wellbeing.