Emotional Jalabert retires

French rider Laurent Jalabert ended his career as a professional rider at the cycling world championships in Zolder on Sunday.

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He finished in 130th place in his last ever race, two minutes and 40 seconds behind winner Mario Cipollini of Italy but was happy to hang up his bike and start a new life away from the pain and glory of cycling.

"It was very difficult to concentrate on the bike race because I felt under a lot of pressure," he said. "I tried to forget about it but it was very hard. I tried to attack in the race but the course was to flat for me to be able to win.

"It was a special day for me. I wanted my wife and family to be here so that they could me in my last race. They've made a lot of sacrifices to help me, now I'm going to dedicate myself to them.

"I don't know what I'll do tonight, if I'm really happy or not, or if I'll celebrate or not. I'm full of all different kinds of emotions."

Jalabert, who has been a professional for 13 years, in which time he has won the Tour of Spain and worn the yellow jersey in the Tour de France as well as winning four World Cup races, added: "Lots of riders don't understand why I've decided to retire even though I can still win important races.

"They're frightened of their futures. It would be easier for me to carry on racing but I now want to be successful in my (life) outside of racing. That's my new challenge in life."

Jalabert, affectionately known as the 'Panda' for his sad looking eyes, said he would continue to work in the world of cycling with French manufacturer Look as well as media work.