Geraint Thomas bids emotional farewell as final Tour of Britain stage starts in his hometown

Former Tour de France champion Geraint Thomas made an emotional return to his roots on the opening of the final stage of the Tour of Britain, taking part in his last professional race before retiring.

The 122.2km stage began at the velodrome in Newport that bears Thomas's name and passed his childhood cycling club, Maindy Flyers, before finishing in his home city of Cardiff. Crowds lined the route to cheer the 39-year-old, who won the Tour de France in 2018 and Olympic gold medals in Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012.

Alan Davies, co-chairman of Maindy Flyers, described Thomas as the club's trailblazer and said his career has left a lasting legacy in Cardiff. "A whole club we're extremely proud, we've been fortunate that we've had a number of youngsters who have come through this club and who've gone on to achieve Olympic golds, world records, world championships," Davies said. "But Geraint was the first, he was the one who showed the others the way. This is Geraint's legacy within cycling in Cardiff."

Davies recalled that Thomas first began riding with Maindy in late 1995, almost 30 years to the day. Many young riders from the club were present to pay tribute as Thomas prepared for the final stage.

Local children who had followed Thomas's career expressed admiration. Ten-year-old Gwen said, "He's inspired so many children to join Maindy, it's just great what he's done." Twelve-year-old Imogen said it gave her "a nice feeling" to know Thomas began his career at the club and went on to become an Olympian and Tour de France winner before returning to finish his last race at home. Another young fan, Raima, said Thomas's achievements "give you a sense of hope and brings everyone together — it makes you want to do better."

Thomas signed autographs for supporters before setting off for the stage, and fans displayed flags and wore face masks in tribute. Organisers scheduled the final stage to showcase local landmarks associated with Thomas's development as a rider, underlining the symbolic nature of his farewell.

Thomas's decision to conclude his career at the Tour of Britain closed a chapter in British cycling in which he played a prominent role, from youth club competitions to grand tours and Olympic podiums. As the peloton rode towards Cardiff, the event served both as a competitive race and a celebration of a career that has inspired riders in his hometown and beyond.