Full Circle - Back to Trofeo Binda
There is always a special feeling at the start of a new European racing block. The energy of the peloton, the familiar rhythm of travel and the intensity of competition all signal that the season is truly underway.
This year, however, that beginning didn’t quite go to plan.
After travelling to Spain for my first European race at Valencia, I was unfortunately forced to withdraw due to illness. It was a frustrating setback, especially after a strong period of preparation and real excitement to begin this part of the season. Moments like these are never easy, but they do have a way of bringing perspective.
Now, as I am here at the Trofeo Alfredo Binda race, there is a strong sense of anticipation - and also something deeper. Racing in this region feels like a full-circle moment for me. Early in my career, I spent my first two professional seasons living in this area, learning what it meant to be a European bike racer and adapting to a completely new environment and culture.
Trofeo Binda was also the very first race I competed in Europe back in 2010 with my first professional team, Lotto Bellisol. Returning here now, so many years later, brings back powerful memories of those early days. The uncertainty, the excitement and the pure love of racing that drove me forward.
At this stage of my career, that feeling is returning in a new way. My focus has shifted toward truly enjoying every race, being present in each opportunity to compete, and embracing the privilege of still being able to perform at the highest level of the sport.
This season represents an important transition period. While I remain fully committed to racing with intention and supporting my team, I’m also inspired by what lies ahead.
Through Rocacorba Collective, we continue to build a global cycling community centred around connection, performance and shared purpose. Alongside this, initiatives like the AMANI project are helping create meaningful pathways for African riders and contributing to a more inclusive future for cycling.
After the disappointment of Valencia, I feel especially grateful simply to be healthy again and ready to race. This race was another opportunity - to test myself, to support my teammates and to embrace the beautiful challenge that racing always brings.
It’s not just about how I finish this chapter of my career. It’s about what I’m riding toward.
If you’d like to read more about this phase of my journey and what the future may hold, there is a recent in-depth feature in Escape Collective that shares more of my reflections — I encourage you to take a look.
Benoît Vittek
-- Ashleigh Moolman Pasio
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