Er fügte hinzu: „Ich freue mich schon darauf, weitere News und Projekte demnächst bekanntgeben zu können. Davon einmal abgesehen, versuche ich den Sport weiterzubringen – zum Beispiel durch neue Bikeparks und andere Bauprojekt, was sich zu einer echten Leidenschaft von mir entwickelt hat. Ich habe Höhen und Tiefen erlebt, stand auf dem Siegertreppchen und habe Rennen gewonnen, was ich mir als Kind niemals hätte erträumen lassen. Ich habe mir meine Knochen gebrochen, viel gelernt, Opfer gebracht, gelacht und Freundschaften geschlossen, die ich nicht missen möchte.“

Didn't know at the time that this would be the last time dropping into the finish area of a World Cup season … It's been an amazing 14 years racing around the globe. All good things they say must come to an end. This was no easy decision let me tell you that! I have decided to hang up my racing boots.. well sort of…… I will take a step back from racing and transition into a new role in the industry and with a brand I have been a fan of for a while now. I will very much still be riding and at events , shoots and maybe a race. Very excited to release the news and upcoming projects soon. On the side I am very much trying to grow the sport and get more people into riding via bike parks and building projects which has become a passion. There were ups and downs, podiums and victories which were not even in my dreams as a kid, broken bones , life lessons ,sacrifices , laughs and friendships which I will cherish forever. There is a list of thanks so long it won't fit here but let's try . First off my Mom and Dad who supported me when I made the choice to go racing! Without them this would never have been possible. My brother @jontyneethling for a kick in the ass when I needed it, riding partner and then wrenching. My close friends!!! All my previous teams and sponsors: Global Racing – Martin Whiteley giving me my first ride and support. Honda/ Turner Mongoose Trek Giant Polygon Ur All my former team mates Everyone that supported me, gave me a lift , let me sleep on their couch or housed me. You all know who you are !! @svenmartinphoto @ridehousemartin for housing me and giving me the chance to live out my dream.. in the early years Let's not forget the fans and industry people that supported me along the way. Here is to chasing a dream!!!! #noregrets #change #transition ????????????????????????????

A photo posted by Andrew Neethling (@andrewneethling) on Jan 17, 2017 at 1:13am PST

Neethling war zweimal auf dem Cover unserer britischen Kollegen zu sehen. Er war außerdem der erste Fahrer, den wir in unserer „Beyond the Bike“-Serie vorgestellt haben. Wir sind gespannt, was die Zukunft für den stylischen Südafrikaner parat hält. Wir ziehen unsere Hüte vor einer tollen Karriere!