The season that is about to conclude has certainly not been one of the most memorable for Juan David Sierra. The young Italian rider for Tudor Under 23 has indeed had to deal for much of the year with a series of problems (physical and otherwise) that have undermined his consistency at the highest level and, in this way, he has ended up performing less than what he and the team expected.

It was the 2023 World Champion in the junior team pursuit at the Track Worlds who, having closed out a 2026 road season with zero victories and just four top-ten finishes, has decided to definitively close the chapter on this year by also declining the opportunity to compete in the Shanghai Track Worlds, scheduled from today through October 18, wearing the national team jersey.

His redemption will therefore come entirely in 2027, a year in which the product of Ciclistica Biringhello, after three seasons in Switzerland, will wear the colors of a new team with which, it is hoped, he will be more fortunate, returning to showcase those qualities that, not long ago, allowed him to achieve successes such as the Paris-Troyes 2025 and establish himself as one of the most brilliant prospects for Italian track cycling.

David, what kind of season has this one been that is about to end? Did you expect something more?

"It's been a difficult season, I have to be honest. After starting well, I was actually sidelined for a month and a half due to a knee problem and when I was finally able to get back to racing, unfortunately, due to external factors, I wasn't able to race with much consistency. However, I had a good end to the season, in my opinion, where despite missing out on a victory I achieved many top placements. Fortunately there will be some changes for next year and I hope to make up for it".

Will you be changing teams?

"Exactly, but you'll find out when the official announcement comes".

What does this Tudor experience leave you with overall?

"I'm very grateful to Tudor for giving me the opportunity to race with them for three years, because I think that for almost every junior rider going to a foreign team represents a dream. In my case, I think some things could have gone better, but in the end I don't have major regrets and I will always thank the team for the opportunity they gave me".

It seems to me you feel you're owed by fortune.

"Let's say that, given how things have gone, this is the first season where I really hope everything wraps up as soon as possible so I can think about the next one".

So you won't be competing on the track in this final stretch of the season?

"I was supposed to go to the Shanghai Worlds, but unfortunately I wasn't able to put together sufficient form. Racing quite a lot, particularly in September, I've arrived at this point in the year fairly tired and without the sharpness needed, so with coach Salvoldi I stepped back: I prefer that someone in better condition than me goes to China".

It's early but what objectives have you set for 2027?

"To demonstrate what I can do. I think that in these three years I've shown something but, also due to some external factors, not my full potential. In 2027 therefore I would like to be able to demonstrate my qualities and participate in important races".