Rome, Italy — Pope Leo XIV received the iconic maglia rosa (pink jersey) of the Giro d’Italia this Sunday and blessed the cyclists, praising them as "role models" for young people ahead of the race’s final stage in Rome. Mexican cyclist Isaac del Toro, who delivered a historic performance by leading the competition for several days before finishing as runner-up, was the second athlete to shake the pope’s hand, following winner Simon Yates.
A Papal Welcome for the Peloton
"Welcome to the Vatican. It is a pleasure to greet you on this final stage of the Giro d’Italia. I hope this proves to be a truly beautiful day for all of you," said the pontiff, who was accompanied by Sister Raffaella Petrini, the first woman to serve as Governor of Vatican City State.
Pope Leo XIV, a well-known sports enthusiast, addressed the peloton, describing the riders as "models for all the young people of the world" and expressing gratitude for their influence. "Cycling, like all sports, is so important. I thank you for everything you do—you are true role models. Just as you’ve learned to care for your bodies, I hope you also nurture your spirits," he said, encouraging them to cultivate "body, mind, heart, and spirit" equally.
The American-born pope, who also holds Peruvian citizenship, concluded with an apostolic blessing, marking the symbolic start of the final stage of the 2025 Giro. Cyclists then began pedaling through the Vatican walls along a 3-kilometer route rich in art, history, and spirituality.
A Spiritual and Competitive Journey
The papal stage commenced beside St. Peter’s Basilica, ascending through the Vatican Gardens past landmarks such as the Mater Ecclesiae monastery and the Lourdes Grotto before exiting Vatican territory through the Porta del Perugino. Once in Italy, the official final stage began, with Britain’s Simon Yates (Visma Lease a Bike) as the virtual champion.
The idea for the Giro peloton to traverse the papal state originated in October 2021 during Pope Francis’s pontificate, when the Athletica Vaticana was recognized as a member of the International Cycling Union. This stage also served as a prelude to the Jubilee of Sport, set to bring athletes and fans worldwide to Rome on June 14–15 for the ongoing Holy Year.
Historically, popes have shown great interest in cycling. Pius XII welcomed the Giro peloton in 1946, Paul VI inaugurated the 57th edition in 1974, and John Paul II met riders during an audience for the Great Jubilee of 2000.
Del Toro’s Remarkable Achievement
Isaac del Toro, hailing from Ensenada, Baja California, made history with his second-place finish, marking a milestone for Mexican cycling. His performance, which included days in the leader’s jersey, cemented his status as a rising star in the sport.
The event underscored the intersection of faith, sportsmanship, and global competition, as athletes and spectators alike celebrated the culmination of one of cycling’s most prestigious races.
Discover more from Riviera Maya News & Events
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.