Rustenburg’s Louis Meintjes retires after 13-year pro career

Rustenburg – After nearly 14 years of racing on the world’s most prestigious cycling stages, Rustenburg’s very own Louis du Buisson Meintjes (33) has officially stepped down from his professional cycling career. A true hometown hero, Louis’s journey from local roads to international acclaim is one defined by passion, grit, and unshakable dedication.

Born and raised in Rustenburg, Louis found his stride not on a football field like his brother, but on a bicycle. “I wasn’t good at other team sports,” he recalls with a smile, “but I found cycling.” That discovery changed everything.

Louis joined the Rustenburg Cycling Club (RCC) at 15, helping his parents buy his first bike — a Raleigh RC2000 — and quickly impressed fellow cyclists with his skill and endurance. Hennie Fourie, RCC co-founder, fondly remembers spotting his talent early on. “Louis had incredible balance and sheer determination on the climbs,” Hennie said. “He showed heart from day one.”

From Rustenburg to the World
After graduating from Bergsig Academy in 2010, Louis joined the Belgian team Crabbé in 2011, beginning an extraordinary journey that would take him to the summits of global cycling. His career highlights include:

• Three Top 8 finishes in the Tour de France (2016, 2017, and 2022)
• South African National Road Race Champion (2014)
• Podium finishes at African Road Championships and the UCI Under-23 World Championships
• Victories in Settimana Internazionale di Coppi e Bartali, Giro dell’Appennino, and stages in both the Vuelta a España and Tour of the Basque Country

Louis was also named Best African Rider of the Year (2013), receiving his award from cycling legend Bernard Hinault during the Tropicale Amissa Bongo in Gabon.

A Career Built on Humility and Heart
Throughout his journey, Louis never forgot his roots. “A big thanks to my supporters from Rustenburg — my family, my friends, and my coach Hennie Fourie,” he said. “Cycling started as fun, but it became my job. I started with nothing and found my own way in the sport.”

His father, Johannes Meintjies, shared his pride: “We are so proud of our son. He’s focused, determined, and humble. Even when he’s home, Louis always wants to hear how the family is before talking about his career. He’s like a diesel engine — always steady, always pushing on.”

A New Chapter Begins
On 13 October 2025, Louis officially announced his retirement, closing one chapter and opening another — fatherhood. His wife, Laura, is eight months pregnant with twin boys, and Louis says he is ready to trade race routes for baby routes.

“I’m incredibly proud to have had a thirteen-year career as a professional cyclist,” he reflected. “As a kid, all I dreamed about was riding in the pro peloton — and I made that dream come true. Racing for the last time at Il Lombardia was surreal. For now, I’m focusing on family life and enjoying sport in new ways.”