Early promise in cycling

Robin Orins, a Belgian cyclist once seen as one of the brightest talents in the sport, has retired from professional cycling at the age of 24. Trained by the Lotto Dstny Development team, Orins became a key figure among young cyclists, winning the Belgian time trial title and earning podium spots at major races like Paris-Roubaix and Liège-Bastogne-Liège.

Challenges after turning pro

After signing his first professional contract with Lotto-Intermarché at the end of 2024, Orins faced unexpected difficulties. He experienced anxiety, panic attacks, and a loss of appetite, which led to depression and a diminished passion for cycling. These issues significantly impacted his ability to compete at the highest level.

Return and setbacks

Orins returned to competition in late July 2025 after a period of recovery. However, his return was complicated by a serious fall during training. Although he briefly regained his motivation, both his physical condition and mental state ultimately made it impossible for him to continue as a professional cyclist.

Reflections on his career

In a message on his Instagram account, Orins shared his thoughts on his time as a professional. He expressed pride in turning his passion for cycling into a profession but admitted that the transition led to a difficult period. He described it as a time of deep personal struggle that made him realize there were more important things in life than cycling.

Accepting the end of his career

After months of effort to rebuild his life, Orins acknowledged the toll the sport had taken on him. He admitted that despite his best efforts, his body and mind no longer supported his pursuit of cycling. With careful consideration, he decided to retire, accepting that his time as a professional cyclist had come to an end.