New York City, August 14, 2025 – GFNY Dayis an annual global celebration of GFNY and sport which will take place this Sunday August 17, 2025. GFNY invites all athletes to put on their GFNY gear to ride with their teams, clubs, groups or alone.
More than 40 official GFNY Day Group Rides will be held in cities and regions around the world, including the USA, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Belgium, Spain, Germany, Poland, Thailand, the Philippines, Bali, Kuala Lumpur, and the Bahamas.
“GFNY Day is our chance to bring the entire GFNY community together, no matter where they are in the world. It’s about the joy of the ride and the connections we build along the way”, says GFNY Community Manager, Matthias Van Aken. “On GFNY Day, the riders are part of something bigger: a global celebration of cycling where we share GFNY experiences, inspire each other, and create memories that connect us. It’s an honor to help make this day possible and to witness the power of our community come to life”.
Mark your calendar for GFNY Day 2025 and register for free here
About GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
Cassoulet and Manfredi win after 4,461 meters of climbing
New York City, July 30, 2025 – This past Sunday, the alpine village of Orcières Merlette hosted GFNY France-Orcières, where riders tackled a grueling 158 km course with a staggering 4,461 meters of elevation gain.
In a thrilling sprint finish, Paul Cassoulet claimed the overall victory in 5:03:06, edging out 2023 GFNY La Vaujany runner up champion Alexandre Banegas and legendary GFNY multi-time podium finisher Julien Bérard, who completed the all-French podium.
In the women’s race, Italy’s Mara Manfredi delivered a commanding performance, securing the win in 6:18:17. She finished 16 minutes ahead of Mallorie Mazzilli (France), who recently took third at GFNY La Vaujany 2025, and Marine Crampe, who rounded out the podium.
Orcières‑Merlette 1850 is a high-altitude ski resort in the Southern French Alps (Hautes‑Alpes), offering over 100 km of ski runs from 1,850 m up to 2,725 m, with a diverse mix of pistes for beginners to advanced levels and Europe’s longest zip line (1,870 m).
In summer, Orcières‑Merlette transforms into a vibrant high‑altitude playground, with three lifts whisking visitors up to 2,650 m for mountain‑bike descents, the “Monde des 6 Lacs” alpine lake hike, paragliding, via‑ferrata adventures – and one of the most spectacular GFNY races.
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
Ya sea que estés persiguiendo tu mejor marca personal o simplemente buscando una aventura ciclista inolvidable, tanto GFNY Cozumel como GFNY San Luis Potosí te ofrecen la experiencia completa de GFNY: carreteras cerradas, competencia internacional y la emoción de llevar tu cuerpo al límite. Ambas carreras están abiertas a ciclistas de todos los niveles, desde quienes compiten por primera vez hasta los más experimentados. Lo que las diferencia es el tipo de reto que representa cada una—y conocer tus fortalezas puede ayudarte a decidir dónde brillar.
GFNY Cozumel: Una carrera contra el viento
GFNY Cozumel es rápida. Con un recorrido completamente plano al nivel del mar, el reto aquí no es escalar—es mantener la potencia frente al viento constante, especialmente en el lado este de la isla. Los ciclistas que sobresalen en Cozumel suelen tener:
Alta potencia sostenida en terreno plano (piensa en watts constantes durante esfuerzos prolongados)
Excelente aerodinámica y posición sobre la bici
Estrategia de rodar en grupo, especialmente en condiciones de viento
Capacidad para rodar con inteligencia y guardar energía para el tramo final
Esta carrera es ideal para especialistas en contrarreloj, triatletas o sprinters fuertes que saben rodar duro en un paceline y ahorrar energía cuando es necesario. La ganancia de elevación es mínima, pero tu habilidad para manejar el viento cruzado y mantenerte concentrado es clave.
GFNY San Luis Potosí: Escala hacia el desafío
GFNY San Luis Potosí, por otro lado, ofrece una ruta con desnivel y altitud significativos, llevando a los ciclistas hacia las montañas y de regreso. Con subidas que premian la paciencia y la determinación, esta carrera favorece a los ciclistas que destacan por:
Buena relación potencia-peso—fundamental para subidas largas y constantes
Ritmo y manejo de energía en terreno ondulado
Comodidad rodando en altitud, donde el oxígeno es más escaso
Habilidad para descender, especialmente en tramos técnicos
Escaladores, atletas de fondo y ciclistas que entrenan en montaña se sentirán como en casa en San Luis Potosí. Pero incluso si subir no es tu fuerte, los paisajes impresionantes y la ruta variada hacen que valga la pena cada kilómetro y cada decisión táctica.
¿Cuál es para ti?
No necesitas ser un “tipo” específico de ciclista para disfrutar cualquiera de las dos. GFNY se trata de presentarte en la línea de salida, darlo todo y cruzar la meta con orgullo. Ya sea que te atraiga el viento costero de Cozumel o las carreteras de montaña de San Luis Potosí, ambas carreras te ofrecen una experiencia GFNY única, desafiante y divertida.
Así que…
¿Estás hecho para el viento o para la altitud?
Tal vez es momento de descubrirlo.
English:
Which Race Suits You Best: GFNY Cozumel or San Luis Potosí?
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or looking for an unforgettable cycling adventure, both GFNY Cozumel and GFNY San Luis Potosí deliver the full GFNY experience: closed roads, international competition, and the thrill of pushing your limits. These races welcome all levels, from first-time racers to seasoned competitors. What sets them apart is the type of challenge each one offers—and knowing your strengths can help you decide where you’ll shine.
GFNY Cozumel: A Race Against the Wind
GFNY Cozumel is fast. With a completely flat course at sea level, the challenge isn’t climbing—it’s holding your power against relentless winds, especially on the island’s east side. Riders who thrive in Cozumel typically have:
High sustained power on flat terrain (think steady watts over long efforts)
Excellent aerodynamics and bike positioning
A solid group riding strategy, especially in windy conditions
The ability to ride smart and conserve energy for the final push
This race is ideal for time trialists, triathletes, and strong sprinters who can ride hard in a paceline and know when to save their legs. While the elevation gain is minimal, handling crosswinds and staying mentally sharp is essential.
GFNY San Luis Potosí: Climb to the Challenge
GFNY San Luis Potosí, on the other hand, features a course with significant elevation gain and altitude, sending riders up into the mountains and back. With climbs that reward patience and perseverance, this race is best suited for cyclists who excel in:
Power-to-weight ratio—crucial for long, steady ascents
Pacing and energy management on hilly terrain
Comfort riding at high altitude, where oxygen is thinner
Confident descending, especially on technical sections
Climbers, endurance athletes, and riders who train in mountainous areas will feel at home in San Luis Potosí. But even if climbing isn’t your strength, the stunning views and dynamic course make for a rewarding and strategic day on the bike.
Which One is For You?
You don’t need to fit a mold to enjoy either race. GFNY is about showing up, giving it your all, and crossing the finish line with pride. Whether you’re drawn to the coastal winds of Cozumel or the mountain roads of San Luis Potosí, both races promise a uniquely challenging and unforgettable GFNY experience.
So…
Are you built for wind or elevation?
Maybe it’s time to find out.
A feast for climbers in one of Europe’s sunniest regions
New York City, July 24, 2025 – This Sunday, the alpine village of Orcières Merlette will host GFNY Orcières which offers riders a 158 km long course with a whopping 4,461 meters of elevation gain.
Nestled in the stunning Champsaur Valley in the French Hautes-Alpes, Orcières Merlette sits at an altitude of 1,850 meters, with nearby slopes reaching up to 2,725 meters. The host town boasts a rich cycling history, having welcomed five Tour stage finishes, the first in 1971 with a victory by Spanish cycling legend Luis Ocaña. The most recent Tour arrival took place in 2020, reinforcing Orcières’ legacy as a premier destination for mountain cycling.
“I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world with my bike to race and ride in many great places,” says GFNY CEO Uli Fluhme. “And hands down the Haute Alpes region is in my personal top three of most spectacular places to ride. Orcières sits in the middle of an area boasting 300 days of sunshine per year, is surrounded by snow covered peaks with glaciers and oozes cycling history every step of the way, wherever you ride. A week (or three) of vacation combined with racing GFNY Orciéres is what a cycling fanatic’s dreams are made of.”
Race week festivities will take place at Place du Drapeaux, serving as the hub of all GFNY Orcières activities. Highlights include the fun and scenic GFNY Orcières group rides on Friday and Saturday, exclusively for GFNY Club and Camp members. Additionally, the weekend will kick off with a lively opening concert and aperitif on Friday evening at the Bowling du Palais des Sports de la Grande Ourse.
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
Lisa Stein and Frederic Glorieux take victory at the fourth edition of the iconic French race
New York City, July 23, 2025 – The fourth edition of GFNY Grand Ballon took place last Sunday in the Alsace region, with a record participation of over 1600 cyclists. Racers tackled the 146.8 km long course with 4043m of climbing across the Vosges mountains in one of the most beautiful destinations in France.
2023 champion Frederic Glorieux (Belgium) once again proved his strength by taking the overall win in a time of 4:31:07, riding for the GF Cycling Club. He was followed closely by Marco Peluso (Italy) of Fratelli Racing Team and Belgium’s Simon Grégoire, who crossed the finish line just fractions of a second later in, securing the final spot on the overall men’s podium in the race host town Thann.
In the women’s race, Lisa Stein of Germany delivered a dominant performance, finishing in 5:14:01, nearly nine minutes ahead of Laury Milette (Canada) and fellow German Lisa Hartung, who completed the podium.
Next up on the GFNY calendar is GFNY Orcières, also in France but this time in the Alps, which will take place July 27, 2025.
About GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
Riders to conquer 4000m of climbing in the fourth edition
New York City, July 17, 2025 – This Sunday, over 1,500 cyclists from around the world will take on the challenging 146 km course of GFNY Grand Ballon, featuring a demanding 4,043 meters of elevation gain.
The race begins in the historic town center of Thann, with the climbing starting almost immediately—just 1 km into the race—with the little-known Le Plan Diebold, which then connects to the legendary Grand Ballon, the highest point in the Vosges Mountains. The road ascends to 1,325 meters, winding through the heart of the breathtaking Ballons des Vosges Nature Park, a region renowned for its climbs featured in the Tour de France.
Host town Thann, located at the gateway to the Alsace Wine Route, will serve as both the start and finish line for the race. Nestled in the foothills of the Vosges Mountains, Thann is famed for its exceptional vineyards and offers a striking variety of terrain—from rolling flats to steep ascents—making it an ideal location for cycling enthusiasts.
“The GFNYs in France offer riders spectacular courses across legendary climbs such as L’Alpe d’Huez, Col du Tourmalet or Col de la Croix de Fer. And GFNY Grand Ballon with its namesake mountain is no exception,” says GFNY CEO Uli Fluhme. “Aside from the strong French contingent, the race draws lots of cycling fanatic Dutch and Belgians for whom the Vosges are the closest real mountains to race on. And not the least thanks to the new GFNY Bremen in August, more and more Germans from across the Rhine river discover the GFNY Grand Ballon.”
Race week activities will take place at Place Joffre in Thann, where riders can pick up their race packets, take photos with fellow competitors, and sign the iconic GFNY sign-in board—a signature part of the BE A PRO FOR A DAY® experience.
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
On May 21, 2017, four Italian riders of Team Swatt toed the line at GFNY on George Washington Bridge. Their dream of racing in New York had come true.
On June 29, 2025, Filippo Conca of Team Swatt won the coveted Italian Pro Cycling Championship.
This is the story of an unconventional team that has the potential to shake up pro cycling. This is the story of Team “Solowattaggio” (Only Wattage), in short: “Swatt”.
What is Swatt?
The cycling establishment struggles to categorize Swatt.
Is it a club of amateurs? Is it an apparel company? Is it an elite team? Is it a – gross! – blog?
It’s all of that, and their success is the result of that unique combination.
Swatt was born as a band of brothers and sisters: a growing group of riders deeply passionate about the sport. Swatt is inclusive—but not in a wishy-washy, everyone-gets-a-trophy way. You’d better bring your A-game and give it your all. Swatt calls this “Life is racing” and “A cuore aperto” (literally, “with an open heart”): passionate.
Anyone can become a club member. Swatt creates stylish cycling apparel, always cutting edge, always the first to adopt new tech. Whether it’s skinsuits or sunglasses – the more aero, the better, to save watts (sic!).
Swatt at GFNY 2022
Swatt quickly became a household name on the granfondo circuit. Their first trip to GFNY NYC became a regular tradition. Over the years, ambitions grew. Swatt took in riders who, in their early 20s, had been deemed too old to turn pro but still had the passion to live like pros.
Mattia Gaffuri, aka Gaffu, was one of them. After a stint with Swiss U23 top team Mendrisio, he didn’t make the cut to turn pro. Like many others, he stepped away from the bike, frustrated. But passion prevailed, and his fire to race led him to Swatt. Granfondo racing offered courses resembling grand tour stages and classics.
At the 2022 race, a friendly rivalry with equally passionate Colombians—”los italianos versus i colombiani”—added excitement. But in the end, Gaffu was beaten in a head-to-head sprint by compatriot and friend Luca Vergallito (Team OM.CC). Vergallito’s success earned him a pro contract with Alpecin-Deceuninck.
Gaffu takes NYC 2023
Out for revenge, Swatt returned to NYC in 2023, fully backing Gaffu. For the first time, Swatt demonstrated that team racing isn’t just for the pros. Gaffu won after a long solo attack, shielded by his teammates.
Despite finishing twice in the top ranks of Zwift Academy—where one rider earns a pro contract—Gaffu was repeatedly overlooked. At 25, he was considered “too old” for a shot at the WorldTour.
Swatt dipping toes into pro racing at GP NYC 2024
But he’s not too old for Swatt. The team picked up more talented riders who had been spat out by the system to attack the 2024 season. The goal: travel with all their riders to the open races that offer the opportunity to race the best, whether it’s road or gravel.
In New York, the Gran Premio New York City debuted as a UCI 1.2 pro race, held just 10 minutes before GFNY on the same course. The top six finishers of GFNY 2023 raced as Team GFNY..
With Gaffu sidelined by a virus, Swatt was represented by Francesco “Il Kaiser” De Candido, a former pro skier like many Swatt founders. Racing a UCI 1.2 event requires national federation approval; once granted, the rider is banned from granfondos for two years. Il Kaiser wasn’t deterred—nothing would stand in the way of racing at the highest level.
This rule is one of the anachronistic barriers between amateur and pro cycling. Fluidity between levels is discouraged, yet the reality is different. With the rise of open races, granfondos employing paid riders, and low-tier pros working side gigs, cycling resembles triathlon or marathon more than it wants to admit.
2025: Continental Pro or Club team?
For 2025, Swatt doubled down on its formula: an exciting, passionate, and stylish home for those who want to RACE—anywhere, anytime. More riders cast off by the system joined Swatt. Management, led by Carlo Beretta, began evaluating the next step: a Continental Pro team license, cycling’s third tier. It would open doors to 1.1-level pro races. Not Flanders or the Tour, but races with top teams.
The UCI fee was budgeted, but one rule clashed with Swatt’s ethos: 50% of riders must be U23. Swatt has been especially welcoming to those just beyond that age cutoff. And no, it’s not a rescue mission for geriatric pros. These are riders in their mid-20s and athletic prime.
GP NYC 2025
Swatt explored which 1.2-level pro races they might still enter and decided to remain a club team. One of those races: GP NYC. We at GFNY were thrilled to host them. Swatt embodies the team-level cycling we envision at the race level. 25 Swatt riders came to NYC to race GP NYC and GFNY.
In the video below, Carlo Beretta addresses his elite riders:
“In 2017, three guys and I were on George Washington Bridge to do this race. Today, we’re here with amateurs and elite riders – but it’s not fair to call you that. You’re all the same. There is no difference because you share three things:
1 – Passion for what you do
2 – The time you have to spend on the bike you spend “full gas”
3 – Most importantly: you don’t come here for the granfondo. They come here because they think it’s their world championship with their team.”
Fresh off a win at the 1.2 Torino-Biella race, Swatt riders were expected to be in the front. And they delivered: a third place and four finishers in the top 20. Gaffu placed 16th after setting the pace and attacking on Gate Hill.
The 2025 Italian Pro Road National Championships
Swatt remained a complete outsider without a chance heading into the Italian Pro Road National Championships. And despite a 3rd overall for Gaffu days earlier at the Upper Austria Tour, this was likely a correct assessment given the level of riders the team would have to deal with that day.
There were top World Tour stars like Filippo Ganna (Ineos), Joanthan Milan (Lidl Trek), Diego Ulissi (Astana) or Davide Formolo (Movistar). There were Pro Tour teams like VF Group – Bardiani CSF – Faizanè racing with 12 guys.
Yet, Swatt went on the offensive, sending two riders in the six man lead group. And all day, across all of the 223 race kilometers, Swatt was always in the picture. When at the end a six man lead group sprinted for the title, it was Swatt’s own and former pro Filippo Conca who beat UAE Team Emirates – XRG rider Alessandro Covi. For Team Swatt, Gaffu rounded out the extended podium in fifth, Nicolo Pettiti arrived in 13th and Lorenzo Ginestra as 22nd.
The aftermath
The headlines of the cycling establishment were as expected as they were stuck in a past that no longer exists:
“Italian cycling at its lowest level ever’’ “Team of a blog wins” “Amateur hour at championship” “You won’t see the national jersey for a year” “Team without sponsor wins”
Swatt responded with humor:
“If you want to see the Italian National Champion kit, come to the next Swatt crit in Lainate.”
But the real sentiment is best summed up here:
“Crazy saying non-Pro in 2025.”
The future
What the cycling establishment sees as a crisis is actually the dawn of a modern pro cycling era. Why don’t more teams have a fan club that races on the same team?
Pro teams have long wanted to become the Manchester Uniteds, Lakers, or Giants of cycling. But it can’t be forced. A replica jersey and stickers won’t cut it. Fans need to be part of it. Let them travel and RACE with the team.
Events like GP NYC and GFNY allow all levels to race together. They are rare for now, but their number will grow—especially if teams bring more riders and demand it.
And the media? Italian TV channel RAI showed a bit of the race, then switched to other sports before the finish. So where did fans go? To social media. Specifically—you guessed it—Swatt’s.
New York City, June 25, 2025 – This past Sunday, the iconic pilgrimage town of Lourdes played host to the fourth edition of GFNY Lourdes Tourmalet, welcoming more than 1000 riders from around the world. Cyclists faced one of the most challenging courses on the GFNY calendar: 157 kilometers with a staggering 4064 meters of elevation gain, featuring the legendary Pyrenees climbs of Col d’Aspin and the iconic Col du Tourmalet (2115m), the most-used climb in Tour de France history.
In the men’s race, it was Aymeric Bardoulat (France) who claimed a decisive victory, crossing the finish line in 4:40:56. He was followed by Bertrand Coumet and Matthias Serrut, rounding out an all-French podium.
The women’s race saw a dominant performance from Aurore Pauchet (France), 2024 GFNY Orcières champion, who took the solo win in 5:12:14. 2022 GFNY Cannes champion and 2023 GFNY NYC runner up champion Annalisa Prato (Italy) followed two minutes later to take second place, while Sophie Borderes (France) secured third.
The breathtaking scenery, historic climbs, and passionate fan support once again made GFNY Lourdes Tourmalet a standout on the global cycling calendar. Lourdes is ideally situated at the gateway to the Pyrenees, offering cyclists immediate access to legendary climbs like the Col du Tourmalet, Luz Ardiden, and Hautacam. The town provides excellent infrastructure for riders, including bike-friendly accommodations, repair shops, and direct train access for easy logistics. Its blend of religious heritage, natural beauty, and proximity to iconic Tour de France routes makes Lourdes a unique and inspiring base for cycling adventures.
Next up on the GFNY calendar is the fourth edition of GFNY Grand Ballon which will take place Sunday, July 20, 2025.
About GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
The fourth edition of GFNY Lourdes lets riders tackle the giant of the Pyrenees
New York City, June 19, 2025 -This Sunday, the world-renowned pilgrimage town of Lourdes, nestled at the base of the majestic Pyrenees Mountains in southwest France, will host the fourth edition of GFNY Lourdes Tourmalet, a race known for its stunning scenery and grueling challenge.
Over 1000 cyclists from around the world will take on a 157 km course featuring a 4064 meters of elevation gain, including the legendary Col du Tourmalet (2115m) — the most frequently used climb in Tour de France history since 1910.
“At GFNY France, you get to race on hallowed ground several times per year,” says GFNY CEO Uli Fluhme. “Last week, GFNY riders got to race L’Alpe d’Huez and this week it’s the legendary Col du Tourmalet. Lourdes is your perfect host town: it has an international airport and is at the footsteps of all the Pyreneen giants for any rider to make a dream cycling trip come true. Stay for a week to test yourself on all the legendary climbs and crown the week with a race that includes the Tourmalet.”
Race week festivities kick off at the Palais des Congrès, the hub for all pre-race activities. Highlights include the GFNY Lourdes Tourmalet Group Rides on Friday and Saturday, where GFNY riders, GFNY Club members, and VIP ticket holders come together for relaxed, scenic rides ahead of race day.
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
Meredith Byrne dominates women’s race with commanding solo win
New York City, June 18, 2025 -Last Sunday, the picturesque mountain village of Vaujany in the French Alps welcomed riders from around the world for the fifth edition of GFNY La Vaujany. With its grueling 151 km course and 4172 meters of elevation gain, the race is one of the most challenging on the GFNY calendar, featuring the legendary ascent of L’Alpe d’Huez.
Belgian rider Tim Alleman once again proved his climbing mastery, crossing the finish line in 4:47:16 to take the overall win. This marks Alleman’s fourth victory at GFNY La Vaujany, solidifying his dominance on the steep alpine terrain and leaving his name into the event’s history.
In the women’s race, it was American Meredith Byrne who delivered a standout performance. Byrne finished an impressive 19 minutes ahead of French competitors Lise Kempf and Mallorie Mazzili, who completed the women’s podium.
The 2025 edition of GFNY La Vaujany once again delivered a world-class race experience, combining spectacular alpine scenery, enthusiastic local support, and a course worthy of the world’s most determined cyclists.
Next up on the GFNY calendar is the fourth edition of GFNY Lourdes Tourmalet which will take place Sunday, June 22, 2025.
About GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
