Last Friday Giulio Pellizzari blew out 22 candles while battling in a padel tournament organized by A&j sports management, an unusual way to celebrate with rackets and balls, but most importantly, many friends. In the same setting, just a year before, the Marche native from Red Bull Bora Hansgrohe was preparing for his World Tour debut, filled with emotions, hopes, and plenty of adrenaline. The desire to perform was strong, as were the questions and uncertainties that naturally arose when seeing himself in cycling's top tier, but now that the season is more than over, we can say that Giulio's star has truly shined.

«2025 was a beautiful year, but it passed so quickly that I almost didn't realize it. I had a lot of fun and learned a lot, but it's always impressive to see Tadej Pogacar up and down on the bike, and I hope he continues to do so because he's a great champion. The Vuelta victory was special, not just the best day of this season, but the best since I started cycling. It took me some time to realize it, even watching the images on TV multiple times, it was incredible and perhaps I'm still not fully comprehending it» Giulio tells us, recalling his victory in the 17th stage of the Vuelta. For his manager Johnny Carera, it was the most beautiful emotion of the season, and so it was for many fans and professionals who applauded him on the roads.

Giulio's 2026 is not just about grand tours, but also about performing well in the classics, races he loves but has had to somewhat neglect. A definitive calendar doesn't exist yet, but the team's planning will certainly have to take into account the arrival of Remco Evenepoel, a prestigious and somewhat overwhelming presence. «Compared to a year ago, I feel the team's confidence in me has changed a lot; certainly, it was there last winter too, but neither they nor I expected me to be so strong. Race after race, they believed more and more in me, supported me, and consider me a truly important rider for the team. I still have a lot to learn, but I know I'll be taken into consideration to continue my positive streak, either alone or with other team leaders» Giulio continues, who in recent weeks has had a first taste of the 2026 Red Bull Bora Hansgrohe version. He hasn't yet had the chance to properly get to know the Belgian superstar, but he's sure there will be time for that.

The road is still long before thinking about the season debut, but for Giulio, one goal is more than clear: to have fun.

You can listen to the full interview with Giulio Pellizzari in next week's BlaBlabike episode.