Cesare "Cece" Benedetti was part of the team from the very first day. He was one of the first riders selected for Ralph Denk's new Team NetApp in 2010. Cece has spent his entire professional career with the same team.
In August, the 36-year-old will end his career as a rider. 15 seasons together show the unique loyalty for which he is known within the peloton. Benedetti is the most experienced rider in the BORA – hansgrohe squad and has become a road captain in recent years. May 23, 2019 will remain unforgettable: Benedetti, usually an important helper in the team, was the centre of attention that day. He celebrated at the finish of the 12th stage of the Giro d'Italia in Pinerolo. The most important victory of a long career was taken in a Grand Tour, in Italy of all places!
The following year, the South Tyrolean became a Polish citizen. Fittingly, the Tour de Pologne - his new home race - will be his final race in August.
Cesare Benedetti
“It seems like yesterday that I met Ralph Denk at the 2009 World Championships in Mendrisio. We quickly came to an agreement and 15 years later, I am proud to finish my cycling career with the same team. Today I can consider it something very special.”
From pro to DS
As one stage of his career comes to an end, preparations for the next stage have already begun. Starting in 2025, Cesare Benedetti will become a Sports Director at Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe. His focus will be on the rookie program with the newly founded U23 team. Prior to the new season, he will complete a trainee program with the WorldTeam Sport Directors. He will switch to the car for selected races in September and October to prepare for his new role.
Cesare Benedetti
“I am now ready to face new challenges in a new role, but still in the same great project. After 25 years of waking up every day with the same sporting goals, I feel grateful and blessed to be able to end my adventure as a professional athlete with new goals already in mind. I am sure this is very important for my future and my health in the next chapter of my life. There are still some big goals that I will share with the team as a rider for the rest of 2024, but I already feel highly motivated to give my best in my new position to repay the team's trust.”