The Shift at Bahrain Victorious: Colbrelli Steps Down as Sports Director
When fans think of cycling legends, Sonny Colbrelli’s name often pops up, especially after his unforgettable win at the Paris-Roubaix. But now, he’s taking a step back from his role as the sports director of Bahrain Victorious after three eventful seasons. This change not only marks a new chapter for Colbrelli but also signals fresh beginnings for the team.
An Unexpected Change
Colbrelli, who made waves as a cyclist before hanging up his racing wheels, joined Bahrain Victorious in 2022. His transition to management came after an early retirement due to some serious health issues. He collapsed during the Volta a Catalunya and was later diagnosed with a heart condition called unstable cardiac arrhythmia. Although stepping into the director’s role allowed him to stay connected to cycling, the decision to move on wasn’t an easy one.
Taking Colbrelli’s place is Enrico Gasparotto, who has experience from his previous stint with Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe. Gasparotto is expected to bring new energy and ideas to Bahrain Victorious during this time of restructuring. With so much change happening, fans are left wondering how this shift will affect the team’s performance moving forward.
Bahrain Victorious’ Journey So Far
Bahrain Victorious had a mixed season in 2025, finishing 10th in the UCI team rankings. The squad only pocketed eight victories, but it was the young French talent Lenny Martinez who shone brightly, contributing half of those wins. Veteran Damiano Caruso also held his ground, finishing fifth in the overall standings at the Giro d’Italia.
As the team embarks on this new journey, it will be interesting to see how they build around their emerging stars. Key riders like Antonio Tiberi and Santiago Buitrago will play critical roles, while young sensation Jakob Omrzel from Slovenia is one to keep an eye on. At just 19 years of age, he recently won the Giro Next Gen under-23 race and is primed to make waves in the WorldTour starting in 2026.
Reflecting on Change
In any sport, change can feel unsettling, but it can also pave the way for new talents to shine. Colbrelli’s departure signifies a reorganization that may breathe new life into Bahrain Victorious. His experience as a rider, along with his insights from his time as a sports director, will leave a lasting impact on the team’s culture.
For cycling fans, this is a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a newbie, there’s always something new to learn and appreciate. As you gear up for your next ride, think about how changes in your own cycling journey—such as new techniques or even new bikes—can lead to exciting new experiences.
Final Thoughts
As Bahrain Victorious looks ahead, it’s clear that both challenges and opportunities lie on the horizon. Whether you’re cheering for sunny days on the road or navigating the ups and downs of the cycling world, remember to embrace change. It’s all part of the ride, and who knows what incredible stories are yet to unfold? Keep pedaling, and let’s see where the journey leads us!
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