The cycling community of the BGY Airport Granfondo joins in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. The news of his death has moved the entire world, touching the hearts not only of Catholic Church faithful but also of millions of people who found an example of humanity, spirituality, and hope in his words and gestures.

For this reason, the 2025 edition of the BGY Airport Granfondo - scheduled for Sunday, May 4th in Bergamo - will be officially dedicated to Pope Francis. A sincere tribute to a Pontiff who deeply loved sports, recognizing its educational, social, and even spiritual value.

During his pontificate, Pope Francis often described sport as a "gymnasium of virtues", capable of teaching sacrifice, loyalty, respect, and collaboration. "Authentic sport," he said during the Jubilee of Sport, "helps us look up, not only at the finish line, but also at others. It is not just competition, but also encounter." Words that perfectly reflect the spirit behind our event.

The decision to dedicate the event to Pope Francis is also part of a shared journey with the Diocese of Bergamo, particularly with the Office for Pastoral Care of Developmental Age (UPEE), in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee.

As Monsignor Giulio Dellavite, episcopal delegate, recalled: "In the horizon of the Jubilee, the initiative is shared with the Diocese of Bergamo, especially with the Office for Pastoral Care of Developmental Age (UPEE). The Jubilee theme chosen by Pope Francis is 'pilgrims of hope'. So 'cyclists of hope' works well too. The image of a priest on a bicycle is not just cinematic with famous images of Don Camillo or Don Matteo, but is also common in the minds and hearts of many. There are even some priests and nuns (though rare) who have a passion for it. The bicycle has all the characteristics of a pilgrimage: facing the road, choosing a destination, total commitment, fraternal proximity, mutual support, communion of both effort and joy. As the Holy Scripture says: the joy of the Lord is our strength... even while pedaling!"

Cycling, after all, has always had the characteristics of a pilgrimage: choosing a destination, the journey, commitment, mutual support. It is a journey made not only of effort but also of communion and joy. A message of peace and brotherhood that, thanks to the inspiration of Pope Francis, we want to carry forward with even greater conviction.

REGISTRATIONS STILL OPEN

It is still possible to register for the BGY Airport Granfondo until race packages are exhausted, using the appropriate forms on the official event website www.granfondobgy.it, or at the organizational offices of GMS, in Via G. Da Campione, 24/c - 24124 Bergamo (tel.+39 035.211721).