The five-time Olympic and 13-time world champion said it was "time to say goodbye" in a lengthy statement released on the eve of the final day of the International Biathlon Union (IBU) World Cup season.

Fourcade could enjoy a fairytale ending to his career as he is in contention for a record-extending eighth overall title at the World Cup in Kontiolahti in Finland.

The French star won seven Olympic medals and 28 at the World Championships during his illustrious career.

Fourcade also equalled the all-time record for individual titles at the World Championships by claiming his 11th gold medal at this year's event in Antholz-Anterselva.

After winning three gold medals at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang, Fourcade said he considered retirement and he endured a disappointing season on the World Cup circuit last year.

"I could have stopped the day after the 2018 Olympic Games with three more gold medals, but I still had to follow this initial trail," Fourcade said. 

"I was heckled a lot last year, but this turbulence has allowed me to grow even more.

"To bounce back to get to this point, at these moments of shared happiness, was the greatest challenge of my career. 

"I believe that this last mission was accomplished, regardless of the outcome of this season."

Fourcade said he was retiring to spend more time with his loved ones and said his passion for the sport is "greater than ever".

"I leave a part of my life behind me, driven by the momentum of all that remains to be built," the Frenchman said.

"I also want to give more to those who have helped me so much because, in twenty years of biathlon, I have learned that our relationships are a defining part of who we are. 

"I would like to thank my family and especially my wife and daughters for their sacrifices and unconditional love. 

"Thank you to my parents for accepting my choices, to my brothers for pushing me, each in their own way, to become better.

"Finally, thanks to all of you, in France, Russia, Germany, Norway, Czech Republic, Italy and wherever you are; thanks for having encouraged, supported, loved me. 

"You have transformed this individual career into a collective adventure.

"It is time to say goodbye. 

"Thank you for this journey."