Greg Minnaar, the most successful elite men’s UCI Downhill World Cup rider in history, will not race for the Santa Cruz Syndicate in 2024. 

The announcement was made via the team’s social media channels yesterday evening and included the following: 

After 16 epic years of racing, puzzling, and making incredible memories together, Greg Minnaar is hanging up his Syndicate jersey. We wish Greg nothing but the best and want to extend a huge thanks for everything he and the Santa Cruz Syndicate have accomplished together. From the dominant 00’s to his current status as the Greatest Of All Time. It’s been one hell of a ride.

As yet, there is only speculation as to whom he may be riding for in 2024 with several large brand names currently being mooted. Rumours have persisted over the last several seasons regarding the 42-year-old’s potential retirement from the sport but that is not something acknowledged within yesterday’s statement. 

Greg Minnaar has four sets of UCI World Champion’s rainbow stripes to his name having won the title in 2003, 2012, 2013 and 2021. He also has three UCI World Cup overall titles to his name with wins coming in 2001, 2005 and 2008. The Pietermaritzburg native has won 23 UCI World Cups included in his 60 podium appearances.