Eden Hazard, the Belgian football icon whose dribbles and flair awed fans at Chelsea and Real Madrid, has traded his football boots for a bicycle saddle in a new chapter of his life.
Since retiring from professional football in October 2023, Hazard has embraced an active lifestyle, diving headfirst into the world of cycling.
His latest adventure? Conquering the grueling Mallorca 312, a prestigious cycling race on the sun-kissed island of Mallorca, where he tackled the 225-kilometer Grand Fondo course on his trusty CUBE bike.
The Mallorca 312 is no leisurely ride. Known for its punishing climbs and breathtaking Mediterranean views, the race attracts cyclists from around the globe.
For Hazard, the 225-kilometer Grand Fondo course was a test of endurance, a far cry from the 90-minute sprints of his football career. Yet, the 33-year-old Belgian approached it with the same determination that defined his time on the pitch.
Crossing the finish line after hours of effort, Hazard was visibly spent but triumphant.
“The first few kilometers were going very well. But the last 25… it was impossible for me to do more,” he told local television.
Despite the physical toll, Hazard’s completion of the race was a testament to his resilience. The man who once danced past defenders with ease now pushed through pain to conquer a new kind of challenge.
Hazard’s foray into cycling didn’t begin with Mallorca. Since hanging up his boots, he’s been spotted embracing the sport with enthusiasm.
In June 2024, he joined part of the Intermarché-Wanty cycling team and his brothers—Thorgan, Kylian, and Ethan—to climb Mont Ventoux, one of cycling’s most iconic peaks.
The ascent was a family affair, blending competition and camaraderie, and it showcased Hazard’s growing love for two-wheeled adventures.
Whether he’s scaling mountains or racing across Mallorca’s rolling terrain, Hazard is proving that retirement doesn’t mean slowing down.
True to his roots, Hazard celebrated his Mallorca 312 achievement in quintessential Belgian style—chugging a can of Carlsberg beer, a moment that endeared him even more to fans.
This is the same player who once famously munched on a burger in the middle of the match, winning hearts with his relatable, everyman persona.
Hazard’s post-race Instagram update captured the joy of the day. “Time to relax after a great day with the @mallorca312 Thank you for everything guys!” he wrote, sharing three photos that reflected his enthusiasm.
Beyond cycling, Hazard’s been spotted playing padel, attending charity events, and spending time with his wife, Natacha, and their four sons. He’s also remained connected to football, occasionally commentating and supporting his former clubs, but it’s clear that cycling has become a cornerstone of his new routine.
Hazard’s approach to retirement is inspiring. Rather than resting on his laurels—two Premier League titles, a Europa League, and a La Liga crown among them—he’s chasing fresh goals. The Mallorca 312 was more than a race; it was a declaration that Eden Hazard is still in the game, just on a different playing field.
