VATICAN CITY — As the Giro d’Italia neared its conclusion on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV extended his blessings to the 159 cyclists participating in the event. An unprecedented highlight of the finale was a majestic ride through the Vatican gardens, located behind the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica.
Leading the prestigious cycling race was Simon Yates, accompanied by other classification leaders who took a moment to pause their spirited journey. Each dismounted to respectfully greet Pope Leo, who graciously accepted a pink jersey replica, representative of the leader’s esteemed position. Leo offered words of encouragement, saying, “You are inspirations for young people worldwide. May God guide you through this last leg of the Giro d’Italia. Congratulations to you all. Remember, the doors of the Vatican are always open to you. This place embodies God’s unconditional love for everyone.”
In a touching unscripted moment, Nairo Quintana from Colombia, the 2014 Giro champion, approached the pope for a personal greeting, seizing a unique opportunity amidst the race’s progression.
Reflecting on the day, Yates expressed his surprise, stating, “I hadn’t expected we would actually meet the pope, I thought it was just a ride through. This experience was an unforgettable highlight, not just for me but for every rider present.”
While blessings during the Giro are not new, and the race has frequently brushed past or near St. Peter’s Square, this year marked a historic inclusion of a path that spanned nearly two miles within the Vatican’s sacred walls.
Initially envisaged as a tribute to Pope Francis for the Holy Year in 2025, the route’s inclusion became a heartfelt homage led by Pope Leo, the first American pope, to honor his predecessor’s memory.
Cyclists entered this rare path through the Petriano gate, swirled around the basilica, ascended toward the lush gardens, and exited near Santa Marta’s hotel at the Perugino gate — marking locations tied closely with Francis’s life as he resided in Santa Marta.
This memorable passage occurred during the non-competitive phase of the stage, setting a tranquil backdrop before the official commencement at the Perugino gate.
The grand finale covered a distance of 143 kilometers, including a rigorous circuit of eight laps through the historic streets of downtown Rome, concluding splendidly at the Circus Maximus.
In the brief time since his election last month, Pope Leo XIV has engaged thoughtfully with the sports community. Recently, he hosted a private meeting with Jannik Sinner, the world’s top-ranked tennis player, followed by a warm reception for the players and staff of Italian soccer champions Napoli.