Vasil Kiryienka

Vasil Kiryienka, a professional cyclist from Belarus, was born on June 28, 1981, in Rečyca, Belarus. He would go on to become one of the most notable Belarusian cyclists with a career spanning various prestigious events and teams. His endurance and time-trial abilities became his hallmarks throughout his cycling tenure.

Vasil Kiryienka participated in the UCI Road World Championships held in 2005, representing Belarus in the professional cycling world. This event marked one of his early involvements in high-level international cycling competitions, helping to establish his reputation on the global stage.

Vasil Kiryienka claimed a significant victory on Stage 19 of the 2008 Giro d'Italia. This stage win was his first Grand Tour stage win and proved his ability to perform in grueling race conditions. Kiryienka attacked and held off the peloton, showcasing his endurance and strategic acumen.

In November 2009, Vasil Kiryienka won gold in the team pursuit event at the UCI Track Cycling World Cup. This victory underscored his versatility and strength as a cyclist, capable of excelling in both road races and track cycling, contributing to his growing list of accolades.

Kiryienka achieved another major victory on Stage 20 of the 2012 Giro d'Italia. Known for his breakaway capabilities, he once again managed to escape the peloton and secure the win. This performance highlighted his skill and persistence in one of cycling's toughest competitions.

Vasil Kiryienka joined Team Sky, one of the leading professional cycling teams, in 2013. His recruitment was part of Team Sky's strategy to bolster their squad with experienced and resilient riders capable of supporting team leaders and securing individual stage wins.

Kiryienka won the gold medal in the individual time trial at the 2015 UCI Road World Championships. This achievement marked a major milestone in his career, showcasing his exceptional time-trialling abilities and solidifying his status as one of the top cyclists in the world.

In May 2018, Kiryienka participated in the Giro d'Italia, contributing as a key team member in navigating the challenging race stages. His participation in such a prestigious event underscored his continued presence and influence in professional cycling.

In early 2019, Vasil Kiryienka was diagnosed with a cardiac arrhythmia, a heart condition that posed significant risks to his health, particularly as a professional athlete. This diagnosis eventually led to his decision to retire from professional cycling to focus on his health and wellbeing.

Kiryienka officially announced his retirement from professional cycling in June 2020. His retirement was primarily due to his ongoing health condition. Over his career, he had become a symbol of resilience and dedication in the sport, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in cycling.