‘Too expensive to defend himself’ – French World Tour retires as he gives up battle against doping accusations & suspension

“French Cyclist Forced into Retirement Amid Doping Suspension: ‘Too Expensive to Defend Myself’

Franck Bonnamour, known for his relentless style and combative performances, has announced his retirement from professional cycling, citing financial constraints in his fight against a doping suspension. The 2021 Tour de France super-combative rider began the 2024 season with Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale but now steps away from the sport amidst an unresolved doping investigation.

The Frenchman, who had previously raced for teams like Arkéa-Samsic and the defunct B&B Hotels, finally reached WorldTour level with AG2R in 2023. Known as a valuable domestique and a promising classics rider, Bonnamour’s career took an unexpected turn earlier this year when irregularities in his biological passport led to a suspension.

The controversy erupted just weeks after he competed in the Tour Down Under. The fallout also impacted his team, with reports suggesting that team manager Vincent Lavenu was dismissed for failing to notify relevant authorities about the issue in a timely manner. The lack of transparency reportedly led to dissatisfaction within the organization, further complicating matter

‘A Financial and Emotional Strain Too Heavy to Bear’

Bonnamour spent the better part of 2024 attempting to clear his name but has now conceded that the financial burden is too great. In an interview with *Ouest-France*, the 28-year-old revealed the emotional and economic toll the suspension has taken on his life.

“It’s too costly in financial terms. I’ve reached a point where I have to stop. I can’t afford to lose everything and I’m financially blocked,” Bonnamour admitted. “These last six months have been incredibly difficult. I didn’t want this to drag on for two or three years—it’s not sustainable.”

He emphasized the importance of maintaining stability for his family while grappling with the uncertainty of his future. “Morally, it’s been a challenging time. I’m fortunate to have the support of my family and psychological help, but I am afraid of what lies ahead. I know what I did and didn’t do, and that truth is what keeps me grounded.”

A Promising Career Cut Short

Bonnamour’s retirement marks a premature end to a career filled with potential. His standout performance in the 2021 Tour de France earned him the title of most combative rider, and his transition to WorldTour level in 2023 was seen as a major milestone. He excelled in classics and stage races alike, demonstrating his versatility and work ethic as a team player.

However, the doping suspension and subsequent financial limitations have left Bonnamour unable to pursue his defense fully. Unlike high-profile athletes with the resources to mount legal battles, Bonnamour’s case highlights the vulnerabilities of lesser-known professionals in the sport.

A Legacy Tainted by Unresolved Questions

The situation underscores the challenges faced by riders accused of doping, especially when resources to defend themselves are limited. Bonnamour’s retirement leaves unanswered questions about the allegations and the broader implications of the biological passport system. Meanwhile, his story serves as a sobering reminder of the financial and emotional pressures that come with professional cycling, where one setback can derail an entire career.

As Franck Bonnamour steps away from the sport, his words resonate with the struggles faced by many athletes: “I just want to focus on my family and find peace. I may be leaving cycling, but I’m not leaving the values that made me love this sport in the first place.”