“I knew that my fate was sealed” – Giulio Pellizzari recalls sinking feeling as Tadej Pogacar hunted him down at Giro d’Italia 2024…Read more

ln the 2024 Giro d’Italia, Giulio Pellizzari experienced a moment of pure racing drama that will forever be etched in his mind. During one of the race’s most intense stages, Pellizzari, riding for his wildcard team, had managed to break away early and build a significant lead over the peloton. As the kilometers ticked down and the finish line drew closer, the Italian rider felt an overwhelming sense of anticipation, but also a looming dread.

Despite his powerful effort, Pellizzari knew that one rider could spoil his dream: Tadej Pogačar. The two-time Tour de France winner had been relentless in his pursuit of the race’s most coveted honors. Pellizzari had no illusions about the Slovenian’s ability to close gaps with terrifying precision. As Pogačar launched his attack, cutting into Pellizzari’s lead, the Italian’s sinking feeling intensified.

“I knew that my fate was sealed,” Pellizzari recalled, his voice tinged with both admiration and resignation. “When you see a rider like Pogačar coming, there’s nothing you can do. He’s on another level. His power, his pacing… it’s all perfect.”

For Pellizzari, it was a bittersweet experience. He had given everything to hold on, but as Pogačar, a master of stage-racing, reeled him in with calculated efficiency, Pellizzari could only watch the inevitable unfold. The moment when Pogačar passed him was like the closing of a chapter in a race that had defied expectations.

Though Pellizzari was eventually caught, and Pogačar surged to the victory, the encounter served as a stark reminder of the level at which elite riders like Pogačar operate. “It was an honor to be out there with him,” Pellizzari said, acknowledging the harsh but undeniable reality of racing against one of the sport’s greats.

Even in defeat, Pellizzari left a lasting impression on the race, proving his mettle, but also feeling the weight of what it means to be outclassed by a true champion.