Maxwell takes break to safeguard health
- editor59343
- 19 hours ago
- 2 min read
New Zealand world mountain bike champion Samara (Sammie) Maxwell is taking a year-long break from competitive sport to safeguard her wellbeing and longevity.
As a result of the break she won't defend her mountain bike world series cross country title after a breakthrough 2025 season.
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Maxwell who hails from Taupo became the first New Zealander to win a UCI World Series title in October.
Her Decathlon Ford Racing Team has announced Maxwell, 24 will take a sabbatical from competitive sport.
"After an intense 2025 season, and several months spent in Europe far from home and family, Samara Maxwell has decided to take a sabbatical break from competitive sport," the Decathlon Ford Racing team announced on social media.
"The New Zealand athlete will dedicate 2026 to a period of rest, recovery and personal reconnection. During this sabbatical pause, she will step away from racing, media activities, social platforms, and public engagements. This choice will allow her to restore physical energy, regain mental balance, and spend meaningful time with the people and places that matter most to her."
"This is the right moment for me to pause, breathe, and return to my roots. I want to spend time with my family, recharge, and prepare myself for the challenges ahead," Maxwell said in the post.
The Ford Decathlon Racing Team said Maxwell's long-term vision remains unchanged.
"To return to competition with renewed determination and continue her journey toward representing New Zealand at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games."
The press release goes on to say that Maxwell's decision has been fully supported by her Decathlon Ford team, personal coach, and the medical staff who have accompanied her throughout the season.
" ....As well as by Cycling New Zealand and High Performance Sport NZ, all of whom recognise this step as essential to safeguarding her well-being and long-term athletic longevity."
Cycling New Zealnad have not directly commented on the social media posts from her team