Italian Cycling Legend's Close Call: A Career Retrospective After 16 Seasons
'I almost lost my arm', says Davide Cimolai, the Italian cycling veteran who has decided to retire after a remarkable 16 seasons in the professional peloton. This decision comes with a mix of relief and reflection, as Cimolai looks back on a career filled with victories, Grand Tours, and unforgettable experiences.
In a revealing interview, Cimolai shared his post-retirement plans, which include a surprising shift to the agricultural sector and a desire to stay connected to cycling. He aims to establish a studio to mentor young athletes, passing on his wealth of knowledge and experience. But his journey to this decision was far from smooth.
The 2025 season was a challenging one, marked by illness and setbacks. Cimolai had intended to race until 2026, but fate had other plans. A severe flu in Oman, followed by a last-minute inclusion in the UAE Tour, took a toll on his health. And then, a life-altering incident occurred during the Tour de Romandie. Cimolai suffered a serious arm infection, requiring hospitalization and nearly leading to amputation. But the real challenge was the aggressive antibiotic treatment, which weakened him significantly and led to a series of ear infections.
But here's where it gets controversial—was it the physical or mental challenges that ultimately pushed him towards retirement? Cimolai's season was further marred by the severe COVID-19 infection he contracted in Poland, and the departure of his lead-out man, Fernando Gaviria, who failed to win a single race in 2025. These events, coupled with his pledge of loyalty to the team for another year, led to a difficult decision.
Cimolai is quick to clarify that he has no regrets or excuses, emphasizing the support of his girlfriend, Alessia, who encouraged him throughout his career. Looking back, he recalls his professional debut in Argentina in 2010 with Liquigas, where he faced the challenge of supporting his captain, Francesco Chicchi, in the sprints, while also dealing with the dominance of Vincenzo Nibali. Prize money, still paid in cash at the time, offered a pleasant surprise, but it was his personal growth alongside the sport's evolution that stood out.
Cimolai acknowledges that cycling has become more demanding, and with maturity, he realizes he could have pushed himself harder in his early years. He credits his coach at Movistar, Leonardo Piepoli, for helping him mature and see things differently. Among his most cherished memories are the Milano-Sanremo, the Tour of Flanders, and the Tour de France, where he almost reached the podium in a stage.
For aspiring cyclists, Cimolai advises adaptation and early dedication. He reflects on how the sport has evolved, requiring younger athletes to be mentally and physically prepared at an earlier age. And there you have it—a career filled with triumphs, challenges, and the realization that sometimes, it's the unexpected turns that shape our paths.
What do you think about Cimolai's decision to retire and his plans for the future? Do you agree that the physical and mental demands of professional cycling have increased over the years? Share your thoughts and keep the conversation rolling!
