DAMIANO CARUSO TO STAY WITH BAHRAIN VICTORIOUS
# Damiano Caruso to Transition into Sports Director Role with Bahrain Victorious
Bahrain Victorious has made a significant announcement regarding the future of seasoned cyclist Damiano Caruso, confirming that he will remain with the team beyond his competitive racing career. The decision was sealed on the final day of the Giro d’Italia in Rome, as Caruso prepares to shift gears into a Sports Director role following his planned retirement in 2026.
At 38 years old, Caruso displayed remarkable perseverance during this year’s Giro d’Italia, achieving a ninth-place finish overall and a podium position on Stage 17. His stellar performance earned him recognition as the race’s Most Combative Rider, showcasing his enduring class throughout the three-week competition.
Beyond individual accolades, Caruso’s influence was deeply felt as he served as a mentor to young rider Afonso Eulálio, who excelled during the Grand Tour under Caruso’s guidance, including a nine-day stint in the Maglia Rosa and a sixth-place overall finish.
A respected figure within the team, Caruso has garnered admiration for his consistency and professionalism, as well as his commitment to nurturing rising talent. His wealth of experience in professional cycling is expected to benefit Bahrain Victorious, especially as he transitions into his new leadership role.
While this announcement marks Caruso’s future with the team, he remains focused on completing his final season with vigor. He aims for a significant milestone: securing a stage victory at the Tour de France, which would complete his Grand Tour stage win collection—having already triumphed in both the Giro and Vuelta a España.
In Caruso’s words: “For me, this feels like a very natural step. I have been with Bahrain Victorious since 2019 and over the years this team has become much more than a team; it has become a family. Throughout that time I have always tried to help the younger riders, share my experience and act as a bridge between the riders and the management.”
He expressed gratitude to the team management, stating, “It means a lot to me that I can remain part of this project and continue working with our riders, helping them grow and sharing not only my experience and knowledge, but also the passion and values that this sport has given me throughout my career.”
Milan Eržen, Managing Director of Bahrain Victorious, also shared his enthusiasm: “We are very happy that Damiano will continue with Bahrain Victorious after he finishes racing. He has been an important part of the team for a long time and understands our culture, our riders, and our way of working.”
Rod Ellingworth, Performance Manager, added, “Damiano is a natural fit for this role. He’s already been mentoring many of our younger riders for a number of years…That experience, combined with his character and leadership qualities, will make him a real asset to our Sports Director group.”
As Caruso concludes this chapter of his racing career, both he and the Bahrain Victorious team look forward to the potential and promise that lies ahead in their continued association.
