April 18, 2005 “” Just moments ago in a press conference from Georgia, Lance Armstrong announced that this year’s Tour de France will be his last as a professional cyclist.

Armstrong explained that his decision came after “a lot of thought” and said that while his focus remains on the 2005 Tour, he will set his sights on other things after his arrival on Les Champs-Elysees.

Stating that his biggest inspiration through his legendary six-straight Tour wins has been his children, Armstrong explained that “While my children have made it easier to suffer, they’ve also told me that it’s time to come home.”

Armstrong did hint at what could come as he confirmed that his relationship with Discovery will be ongoing, adding that he would like to parlay his “success on the bike into something else.” Speculation holds that after a well-deserved rest, look for Armstrong to play a larger role with the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

More info as we get it.