Bold truth: health must come first, even when the spotlight shines brightest. Veronica Ewers is stepping away from elite cycling ahead of the 2026 season, a decision she and EF Education–Oatly describe as mutual and health-centered.
Summary of the situation: Veronica has lived with RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport) throughout her career. After taking a lengthy break in 2024 to support recovery, she returned to racing under tight medical and nutrition supervision. The team coordinated her training and race schedule while closely monitoring symptoms to aid her recovery from RED-S.
Current status and next steps: After ongoing efforts to rebuild her health, a recent blood analysis conducted by Veronica’s personal nutritionist showed hormonal markers still consistent with RED-S. Consequently, Veronica and the team agreed to terminate her contract. This decision aims to give her uninterrupted time away from competition to prioritize healing and remove the pressures of professional obligations.
Support system: The EF Education–Oatly medical staff, therapists, and dietitians will remain available to Veronica during her time off the bike, ensuring she has integrated care as she focuses on recovery.
Veronica’s perspective: “The team has allowed me the space to recover, but the time hasn’t fully healed my body yet. Now is the moment to prioritize health because without complete healing, performance cannot truly return. If I ever want to race at the top level again, honest, full recovery must come first.” She also expressed gratitude to the team for listening and supporting her health goals.
Team leadership view: General manager Esra Tromp emphasized that rider health and long-term well-being always take precedence, guiding this difficult decision. Veronica’s courage and dedication are acknowledged, and the team remains committed to supporting her on her health-focused path, with the hope of a future return to full health and competition.
Additional resources: If RED-S is a concern for anyone, Project RED-S offers guidance and support at https://explore.efprocycling.com/ProjectRED-S.
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