A further, affectionate, and heartfelt testimony to the consideration and esteem that his native Bergamo region – and beyond – held (and will continue to hold) for Gianni Sommariva was demonstrated through the crowded, moving, and well-attended farewell ceremony on the afternoon of Monday, August 17th at the Church of S. Anna in the characteristic setting of Borgo Palazzo in the Bergamo capital.

The rite was soberly celebrated by Don Angelo Domenghini, the parish priest, with Monsignor Mansueto Callioni, two names recognized also for their specific passion for two wheels. Don Angelo briefly outlined the salient features of Gianni Sommariva's multifaceted career in the cycling world with quick references to his specific qualities that overcame obstacles insurmountable for others, with him and his team of heterogeneous collaborators, almost like "devoted followers," anticipating and charting roads and paths previously unexplored

Despite the holiday period and the warm temperature, the sight of the dense crowd of faithful following the rite evoked an extensive and impressive gallery of riders from various eras, many with first-rate palmares, along with his family members, friends from sport and life.

The sporting institutions of cycling, and also of other sports, were present with the movement's leadership. Several representatives of Bergamo's political establishment were also there, who supported him – and also, said good-naturedly, "tolerated" – him, as well as various economic entities that stood by him over the years. We will not go into naming them individually. Today's chronicle in the Eco di Bergamo provides an exhaustive listing of those present.

A figure, that of Gianni Sommariva, who rightfully enters the "Hall of Fame" of cycling in a land where cycling is not just a sport but a style of popular culture and life.