In a refreshing and courageous move that's gaining widespread support, New Zealand's mountain biking sensation Sammie Maxwell is taking a well-deserved year off to focus on what matters most: her health, happiness, and personal wellbeing.

The 24-year-old athlete from Taupō is coming off an absolutely stellar year that saw her make history as the first New Zealander to win a UCI World Series title. She even earned recognition as a finalist for Halberg sportswoman of the year, cementing her place among the country's sporting elite. But rather than pushing through to defend her world series cross country title, Maxwell is choosing a path that prioritizes long-term success over short-term glory.

"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 shared in her announcement. Her openness about the decision reflects a maturity and self-awareness that's truly inspiring in the high-pressure world of elite sports.

Maxwell, who has been admirably transparent about her journey with anorexia, spent her first full elite season competing in 2024. That year included plenty of time at home managing her health, showing her commitment to balancing athletic excellence with personal wellness. After what her Decathlon Ford Racing Team described as an "intense 2025 season at the highest level of international racing," she's making the wise choice to step back and recharge.

What makes this story particularly uplifting is the overwhelming support Maxwell is receiving. Her team, sponsors, coach, medical staff, Cycling New Zealand, and High Performance Sport New Zealand are all standing behind her decision. This shows a wonderful shift in sports culture, where athlete wellbeing is valued as much as medals and titles.

During her 2026 sabbatical, Maxwell will step away from racing, media activities, social platforms, and public engagements. She'll dedicate this precious time to rest, recovery, and meaningful moments with the people and places closest to her heart. It's a chance to restore physical energy, regain mental balance, and reconnect with what truly matters.

Why This Inspires: Maxwell's decision sends a powerful message to athletes everywhere that it's not only okay to prioritize mental and physical health, it's essential. In a world that often glorifies pushing through at all costs, she's demonstrating that true strength sometimes means knowing when to step back. Her transparency about her journey with anorexia and her commitment to recovery shows incredible courage and could help countless others facing similar challenges.

The story gets even better: this isn't goodbye, it's see you later. Maxwell remains focused on returning to competition in 2027 and has her sights set on representing New Zealand at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. By taking this time now, she's investing in a sustainable, healthy future in the sport she loves.

Maxwell's choice reminds us that the most successful journeys aren't always straight lines to the top. Sometimes the bravest thing an athlete can do is listen to their body, honor their needs, and trust that taking care of themselves will ultimately lead to even greater achievements.