Pello Bilbao brought his 15-year professional cycling career to a fitting close with a brilliant ride at Il Lombardia, securing a top-ten finish in Como and achieving Bahrain Victorious’ objective for the final Monument of the season.

The 36-year-old Basque rider lined up for his final Monument with plenty of emotion, as his family surprised him before the start in Bergamo. The unexpected visit from his wife and children brought tears to his eyes, but once the race began, Bilbao put his emotions aside and focused on delivering one last performance at the highest level.

The 120th edition of Il Lombardia lived up to its reputation as the toughest Monument of the season, covering 239 kilometres, nine climbs and approximately 4,600 metres of elevation gain.

Antonio Tiberi joined the day’s breakaway for Bahrain Victorious before being dropped as the race reached the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb. Bilbao, meanwhile, remained protected in the peloton, with also the role of experienced road captain guiding the team through the demanding race.

On the decisive climbs in the finale, Bilbao held his own in a strong, reduced chasing group featuring several of the race’s leading contenders, including European Champion Remco Evenepoel, World Champion Brandon McNulty and Tom Pidcock. He crossed the finish line in Como in seventh place, 1 minute and 20 seconds behind solo winner Paul Seixas.

For Bilbao, the result provided a fitting final chapter to a career built on consistency, dedication and a willingness to give everything for his team.

“I can say it was a monumental year for me. Finishing in this way was the best I could have asked for. My emotions were already running high this morning when my wife and children surprised me by coming onto the team bus during our meeting. I couldn’t hold back the tears, but then I focused on the race.

“I knew this was a good opportunity for me, and the team knew how motivated I was to finish my career at the highest level in a Monument. It was an unforgettable day.

“Thank you to all my teammates, the staff and the directors. For me, this team has been a big family, and I have really enjoyed this journey with them. I was able to give my best, race with passion and heart, and enjoy this special sport. Cycling has given me so much, and I will always be grateful for that.”

Bahrain Victorious Sports Director Roman Kreuziger praised Bilbao for his commitment right to the final metres, with the experienced rider delivering the result the team had targeted.

“We came here with the objective of finishing in the top ten, and I think Pello did really well in his last race. At one point, I even hoped we could achieve a top-five finish. But looking at the situation with 25 kilometres to go, on Civiglio, he was close to his limit as the group of around 20 riders began to split. We should be proud of what he achieved.

“The objective was met. A rider who is ending his career delivered the result we wanted, and he showed the younger guys the right example of what it means to work hard and how that work pays off. It is about consistency, and Pello has been consistent throughout his career.

“Despite a few seasons affected by illness, whenever he was fit, he was dedicated to his work, whether supporting our leaders or taking his own opportunities. Today, even in the final race of his career, he showed that he was fully committed to giving his best. That says a lot about the rider and the person he is.”