Nairo Quintana retires from professional cycling in Cartagena

Colombian cycling legend Nairo Quintana has officially retired from professional competition, marking the end of a career that included victories in the Giro d'Italia and the Vuelta a España. His farewell was celebrated during the Gran Fondo Nairo Quintana Fest in Cartagena, an event that drew over 20,000 visitors from 21 different countries and boosted local tourism and hotel occupancy to nearly 80 percent.

Approximately 6,900 cyclists participated in the event, alongside runners and mountain bikers. Quintana expressed a mix of nostalgia and satisfaction, stating, “I gave my 100%, I gave what I had and that was the result.” The ceremony was attended by several former rivals and colleagues, including Chris Froome and Alberto Contador. His retirement has reignited national debates regarding the greatest Colombian athletes in history, comparing his legacy to other icons such as Egan Bernal.