Victor Lafay faces uncertain future due to health issues

French professional cyclist Victor Lafay is facing a potential end to his career after a season without racing due to mysterious health problems. The 30-year-old climber, who previously won a stage in the 2023 Tour de France, has been unable to compete in 2026 because of extreme fatigue and exhaustion following a trip to China.

Lafay reported that medical tests have not yet identified the cause of his condition, though possibilities such as long COVID or a tropical disease are being considered. He described experiencing severe exhaustion after minimal exertion, noting that even simple tasks like going to the supermarket left him needing to sleep.

His current team, Unibet Rose Rockets, will not be renewing his contract for 2027. Lafay stated that he is not actively seeking a new contract and is focusing entirely on his health. While he has not officially retired, he expressed a desire to complete one or two more races if his health improves, noting that ending his career now would feel like leaving things unfinished.