With a heartfelt message shared on social media, Daniele Bennati officially closes an important chapter of his career, that of Head Coach of the Italian National Road Cycling Team. While waiting to discover if he will be succeeded on the blue team by Track Cycling Head Coach Marco Villa, as previously anticipated by tuttobiciweb.it, here are the words of the 44-year-old from Arezzo:

I am ending with the same words with which I began in November 2021.
Leading the National Road Cycling Team was a beautiful dream for me.
First with my eyes closed, then with my eyes open.
And for this, I thank those who allowed me to live it, that is, the Italian Cycling Federation and all those who shared joys and sorrows related to this experience with me.
As always happens when you wake up, you are sad that the dream has ended.

In my case, the regret is due to the fact that I did not have the opportunity to complete a project that, given the current historical moment of Italian road cycling, especially compared to other countries, required more time.
I would still be happy and proud if I were to see, in the near future, some of the young riders who wore the blue jersey with me for the first time, excel in some international race.

Out of respect for all the enthusiasts of this wonderful sport, I feel it is my duty and honest to point out that my disappointment is also due to the "termination treatment" I was given.
I read in the main national sports newspapers first that my position would be renewed and then, instead, that they would appoint someone else in my place.
All this, after receiving, from those concerned, first broad reassurances about my confirmation, and subsequently, instead, no communication about the non-renewal of my position.

I believe that those who take responsibility for deciding for the FCI have every right not to renew my contract and to appoint another Head Coach, but not also to behave in such a manner towards me.
A conduct, as a consequence of which, I have also given up important professional assignments out of the love I felt and still feel for the blue jersey.

Finally, I thank all the guys who sweated and worked hard for the jersey of our wonderful Nation, the Staff and all those who in these three years have made us feel their affection, encouragement and closeness along the roads of the whole world.
I will always be the first to cheer for Italian cycling.

Daniele Bennati