Domenico Pozzovivo Makes Long-Awaited Comeback in IPT Debut
Domenico Pozzovivo, the 40-year-old cyclist, is ready to make his much-anticipated debut for Israel – Premier Tech team at the Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali. Despite his age, Pozzovivo’s spirit and excitement surpass even that of his younger teammates. He reflects on the challenges he faced during his absence from professional racing, stating, “The looming thought that it was over for me did cross my mind a few times, but I refused to lose hope and just kept on training.”
However, his wait is finally over as Israel – Premier Tech offered him the opportunity to continue his career. Pozzovivo immediately shifted his focus to preparing for his first race with the team, spending weeks at an altitude training camp in the Alps. He expresses his determination, saying, “I am ready to fight for the GC here. I am hopeful a top-10 is a realistic goal. I am very competitive, and what’s the point of racing if you do not challenge yourself?”
The Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali is a mountainous race, but the team is fully backing Pozzovivo as their leader. Sports Director Oscar Guerrero states, “We don’t want to put too much pressure on him. It’s his first race of the season, but he is confident, and we will support him.”
Domenico Pozzovivo acknowledges the strangeness of starting afresh with new teammates but expresses confidence in a quick bonding process. He is eager to share his experience and help the young riders, as he believes in the team’s potential for growth. Pozzovivo fondly recalls his best Giro d’Italia in Jerusalem back in 2018 and hopes to create more great memories with Israel – Premier Tech.
Reflecting on his journey, Pozzovivo credits his determination to continue racing, even after a horrific accident in 2019. He states, “I decided then that no way I will stop racing and I even surprised myself coming back as strong as I did. Actually, I never thought I would keep going until 40, but I am as hungry as ever.”
Now, Domenico Pozzovivo’s long-awaited comeback begins a new chapter with Israel – Premier Tech.
