Three-time world champion Peter Sagan will compete in the Giro d'Italia for the first time next year — and then could quit cycling.
The Slovakian has never ridden the Giro, making it the only Grand Tour stage victory he lacks from a much-decorated 10-year professional career.
Sagan announced his decision to compete in the famous Italian race — as well as the Tour de France — during the presentation of the route of the 2020 Giro, at a televised event in Milan on Thursday.
The 29-year-old, who rides for Bora-Hansgrohe, then hinted he could retire.
"I always said that I want to do the Giro before I finish my career," Sagan told reporters. "Then maybe after Giro I can finish my career."
When complimented on the "joke," Sagan replied: "How do you know it is joke?"
When pressed still further about it, he would only say: "Who knows."
Next year's Giro starts in Hungary, which borders Sagan's native Slovakia.
Richard Carapaz, who became the first rider from Ecuador to win a Grand Tour with his triumph in this year's Giro, said he wants to defend his title but that the decision ultimately lies with Team Ineos, which he will join from the start of next season.
"I can't guarantee it but I really think I will be there," Carapaz said. "I will do my utmost to be there."
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