Even the most die-hard of Chelsea fans might have struggled to recognise their former hero Eden Hazard.
The 33-year-old looked almost unrecognisable as he donned the jersey and bibs of cycling team Intermarche–Wanty, with a black helmet and shades, as he tried to conquer Mont Ventoux. Intermarche first shared the pic on social media, with Hazard declaring he was ready to climb.
The Belgian then posted a snap near the top of the infamous climb, with the Premier League icon clearing struggling with the steep lunarscape slopes of the mountain. The Ventoux gained notoriety in cycling when, in 1967, Tom Simpson died trying to win the Tour de France with an audacious attack.
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“Nah, what are these [Eden] Hazard side-quests,” one fan joked. While a second said: “If it’s not on @strava it didn’t happen…”
“Bring him to Tour de France please,” a third pleaded. And another added: “The fact that Belgian footballers are actually Belgian, the same Belgian that Belgian cyclists are… doesn’t really fit into my head properly.”
Did you recognise Eden Hazard? Let us know in the comments section below
(Image: Instagram)
(Image: Instagram)
Ex-World Road Road Champion Remco Evenepoel, who once captained the the Belgian U16 national team, responded: “Phenomenon!”
Hazard has been taking up cycling after hanging up his football boots – and back in October the World Tour gifted him a bike. Intermarche posted on social media: “Eden Hazard starts his new career with Intermarche-Circus-Wanty.
“Eden and his brother Kylian visited our store Want You Bike and service course, they were seduced by our Cube Bikes. Welcome to the family and enjoy your new adventures guys!”
(Image: Getty Images)
The two-time Premier League winner retired last October, after a disappointing spell at Real Madrid following a glittering seven years at Stamford Bridge, having begun his career with Lille. He said: “You must listen to yourself and say stop at the right time. After 16 years and more than 700 matches played, I have decided to end my career as a professional footballer.
“I was able to realise my dream, I have played and had fun on many pitches around the world. During my career I was lucky to meet great managers, coaches and teammates – thank you to everyone for these great times, I will miss you all.
“Now is the time to enjoy my loved ones and have new experiences. See you off the field soon my friends.”