The 2005 season for Quick-Step–Innergetic began in January at the Tour Down Under. Three riders announced their retirements from cycling in 2004. Johan Museeuw made 2004 his last year of professional racing after riding for the team for 2003, 2004 and with the team's predecessor Mapei–Quick-Step for 6 years. Richard Virenque seven-time winner of the Mountains classification in the Tour de France also retired, he won the last two of his seven victories at Quick-Step. Laurent Dufaux Two-time winner of the Critérium du Dauphiné also retired at the end of 2004 after one year with the team.