In October 2026, Dutch cyclist Jan-Willem van Schip announced his retirement from professional racing at the age of 32. Over a 13-year career, Van Schip achieved notable successes, including winning the Points Race at the 2019 World Championships and the Madison in 2023. However, his journey was marked by significant challenges, both on and off the track.
In 2021, Van Schip was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition stemming from a traumatic incident in his youth. During a local festival in Schalkwijk, he was struck on the back of the head by a bully, an event that left a lasting impact on his mental health. The diagnosis was kept private, as Van Schip feared that revealing it might lead to misunderstandings or stigma within the cycling community.
The effects of PTSD were profound. Van Schip described experiencing intrusive thoughts from the moment he woke up until he went to sleep, thoughts that he struggled to organize. In an attempt to find relief, he would force himself to visit a nearby electricity mast, seeking solace in its solitude. During these moments, he contemplated self-harm, reflecting the depth of his internal turmoil.
The constant barrage of distressing thoughts led to feelings of numbness, as if the voices in his head were dulling his senses. This mental fog was pervasive, affecting his daily life and interactions. Even during training sessions, if things weren’t going well, the negative thoughts would intensify, leading to overwhelming sensations and distressing physical symptoms.
In an effort to manage his condition, Van Schip underwent Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. While this approach provided some temporary relief, the intrusive thoughts remained a constant presence, challenging his ability to find peace.
Despite these personal battles, Van Schip’s professional life continued to be marked by controversy. He was disqualified from several races due to equipment violations, including the use of unconventional handlebars and a forward-leaning seatpost. These incidents led to feelings of exclusion from the sport he loved, culminating in his decision to retire from professional cycling.
In his retirement announcement, Van Schip expressed a sense of futility, stating, “It’s pointless. There’s simply no place for me in professional cycling.” He hinted at a possible transition to gravel racing, which has more lenient regulations, but emphasized his desire to find a new path that aligns with his well-being.
Van Schip’s journey underscores the importance of mental health awareness in the high-pressure world of professional sports. His openness about his struggles with PTSD serves as a reminder of the human side of athletes and the challenges they may face beyond the public eye.
For those experiencing similar struggles, it’s crucial to seek support. In the Netherlands, individuals can contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie at 0800-113 or visit their website at 113.nl for confidential assistance.
Highlights:
- ‘Time to look somewhere else’ – Boundary-pushing Dutch rider Jan-Willem van Schip is done with cycling, Published on Tuesday, September 15
- ‘I don’t feel welcome in cycling’ – Jan-Willem van Schip speaks out following latest disqualification, Published on Thursday, May 07