Canadian cyclist Mike Woods withdraws from Montreal swansong due to illness and pending hernia surgery, ending his career earlier than planned.
Veteran Rider Ends Season Early
Canadian cyclist Mike Woods has withdrawn from Sunday’s Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal, cutting short what was meant to be his farewell race. His team, Israel–Premier Tech, confirmed Wednesday that the 38-year-old from Ottawa has been sidelined by illness and will undergo hernia surgery.
The Race He Will Miss
The Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal, a 209.1-kilometre event, is one of two prestigious one-day WorldTour races held annually in Quebec. While Woods had not planned to compete in Friday’s Québec City race, the Montreal start line was meant to serve as the final chapter of his 13-year professional career.
Health Challenges Behind the Withdrawal
According to Israel–Premier Tech, Woods had been struggling with illness for over a week, leaving him unable to compete at the required level. The hernia surgery now scheduled will prevent him from racing again this season. The team described the decision as unavoidable given his condition.
Career and Retirement Plans
Woods announced in August that this season would be his last as a professional cyclist, citing the physical toll and years spent away from his family. A former middle-distance runner who famously ran a sub-four-minute mile before switching to cycling, Woods went on to compete in multiple Tours de France and represent Canada at the Olympics. He has hinted at future pursuits in endurance sports following retirement.
Canadian Presence in Quebec Races
Despite Woods’ absence, Israel–Premier Tech will still field seven riders across both Quebec races, including Canadians Hugo Houle and Guillaume Boivin. The start list features 23 teams and more than 160 riders from over 30 countries, making it one of the strongest fields outside the Grand Tours.
Controversy Surrounding the Event
This year’s Montreal race has also faced political tension. The group Palestinian and Jewish Unity (PAJU) urged Mayor Valérie Plante to bar Israel–Premier Tech from participating, citing Israel’s actions in Gaza. The request has fueled debate, though organizers have not indicated any plans to exclude the Canadian-Israeli backed team.
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