BGY Airport Granfondo 2025 Dedicated to Pope Francis

The organisers of Bergamo’s prestigious international granfondo have decided to dedicate the next edition of the event to the memory of Pope Francis, a Pontiff who loved sport deeply.

The BGY Airport Granfondo community joins in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. News of his death has moved people around the world – not only the faithful of the Catholic Church, but also millions who found in his words and actions a source of moral, human, and spiritual guidance.

For this reason, the 2025 edition of the BGY Airport Granfondo – taking place on Sunday, May 4 in Bergamo – will be officially dedicated to Pope Francis. A heartfelt tribute to a Pontiff who had a deep love for sport, recognizing its profound educational, social, and even spiritual value.

Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis often referred to sport as a “gym of virtue,” capable of teaching sacrifice, loyalty, respect, and teamwork. “Authentic sport,” he said during the Jubilee of Sport, “helps us look upward, not only towards the finish line but also towards others. It is not just about competition — it is also about encounter.” These words perfectly reflect the spirit that drives our event.

This dedication also aligns with the ongoing collaboration with the Diocese of Bergamo, particularly through the Office for Youth Ministry (UPEE), in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee. As Monsignor Giulio Dellavite, episcopal delegate, recalled: “In the context of the Jubilee, the initiative is shared with the Diocese of Bergamo, particularly with the Office for Youth Ministry (UPEE). The Jubilee theme chosen by Pope Francis is ‘pilgrims of hope.’ So, ‘cyclists of hope’ fits well too. The image of a priest on a bicycle is not just something from the movies, like the famous figures of Don Camillo or Don Matteo – it is also familiar and cherished in the minds and hearts of many. There are even some priests and, though rare, some nuns who are truly passionate about cycling. The bicycle has all the qualities of a pilgrimage: facing the road, choosing a destination, total commitment, fraternal closeness, mutual support, and a shared experience of both struggle and joy. As Scripture says: ‘The joy of the Lord is our strength’… even while pedaling!”

After all, the bicycle has always embodied the essence of pilgrimage: the choice of a goal, the journey, the effort, mutual support. A path marked not only by fatigue, but also by community and joy. It is a message of peace and brotherhood that – inspired by Pope Francis – we are committed to carrying forward with renewed purpose.

REGISTRATION STILL OPEN
You can still register for the BGY Airport Granfondo while race kits are available. Sign up through the official website www.granfondobgy.it, or directly at the GMS headquarters, located in Via G. Da Campione, 24/c – 24124 Bergamo (Tel. +39 035.211721).