Between road and track, with heart and mind: Elia Viviani bids farewell to professional cycling, closing a remarkable career with two final rides.
The first will take place close to home, at the Giro del Veneto on October 15, a tribute to the roads where his journey began. The second will be on the track that has given him so much, at the UCI Track World Championships in Santiago, Chile (October 22–26, 2025).
After that, the Italian champion will step off his bike with the same smile and grace that have defined his entire career- at peace, and proud of all he has achieved.
Born in 1989, Viviani looks back with serenity and pride, his legacy shining brightly after years of extraordinary success representing Italy around the world.
Flag bearer for Team Italy at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, alongside Jessica Rossi, Viviani’s Olympic record includes three medals on the track: the gold in the omnium at Rio 2016, the bronze in Tokyo 2021, and the silver in the Madison with Simone Consonni at Paris 2024. His collection also features eight World Championship podiums and more than ten European titles.
On the road, Viviani amassed 90 victories, including five Giro d’Italia stage wins, three at the Vuelta a España, and one at the Tour de France- achievements that place him among the greats of modern cycling.
“I started this final season wanting to prove something,” Viviani said. “I wanted to be the one to decide when to stop, even though many people asked me over the past months if I was ready to retire. The merger of my team, Lotto, with another convinced me that this would be my final year. I know I’m still at a good level, which is why I want to end at the World Championships, maybe even chasing that rainbow jersey. You know it’s time to let go when you’re not as competitive as before, or when everything has to be perfect just to keep up, when once it came naturally.”
A thoughtful and serene decision, free from regrets. “I would do it all over again, 100%. I’m incredibly happy with what I’ve achieved. Cycling has taught me how to live, it shaped me as both an athlete and a person. I’ve seen the world thanks to this sport. It’s given me joy, discipline, and purpose. It has always been a part of me.”
A journey that began when an eight-year-old boy balanced school and cycling, growing stronger with every kilometer on the roads of his native Veneto.
So it feels only right that his final race on the road will take place there: “Everything aligned perfectly this year,” Viviani added. “With the Giro del Veneto finishing in Verona, I thought this will be the perfect moment to ride my last road race, in my hometown, surrounded by fans, friends, and family.”
