Published on : 10/10/2026
Emotions ran high this Saturday during the Tour of Lombardy, the final Monument of the season. After a 17-year career, Ion Izagirre finished his final professional race, despite a broken wrist. His teammates gave it their all: Sylvain Moniquet was in the breakaway, and Sam Maisonobe finished in the top 20.
Ion Izagirre had done everything he could to make it feel like a normal day, just another race. But the Basque rider was caught up in the moment and the emotions that came with it. This was his final race as a professional, bringing to a close 17 years of life, racing and thrills. That morning, emotion was everywhere: in the embrace with his loved ones, who had surprised him by being there; in the tears of Gorka Gerrikagoitia after the team briefing; and in the warm applause during the sign-on ceremony.
Ion then climbed aboard his bike, sporting a special Look design featuring the colours of the Basque Country. Before the start, the entire peloton formed a guard of honour. Heavy hearts, but the tears had already dried: it was time to race and enjoy one final chapter.
Moniquet and Maisonobe deliver a superb performance!
The race came alive early on and, from start to finish, the Cofidis riders played a major role. Sylvain Moniquet was the first to make his mark. The Belgian joined a group of 14 riders, which was later whittled down to seven. He was also the one setting the pace on one of the final climbs approaching Como.
Further back, the battle between the favourites was growing ever more intense. Sam Maisonobe was among them. The young Frenchman dug deep and fought harder than ever. His efforts were rewarded with 20th place at the finish, recognition of his determination throughout the season. A little later, Ion crossed the line too. His family were still there, and so was his smile. “These are nothing but happy moments,” he told them before rejoining the team.
Reactions
Ion Izagirre:
“There were so, so many emotions today. Just being on the start line of this race was already a great achievement, given my fractured wrist. After that, I tried to give it everything I had. The team had a great day, with Sylvain Moniquet and Sam Maisonobe riding really well. My whole family was there at the finish. I’m very happy to have been able to share these moments with the riders, the staff and my loved ones. And I think I’ll keep savouring them for a little while longer!”
Sam Maisonobe:
“I’m still struggling to take it all in. It’s been a long road since I was confined to a hospital bed last July. But since I came back, I feel as though I’ve taken another step forward. My legs feel great, I’m climbing better, and that was really my goal. Racing alongside the big favourites gives you confidence. You start to think that they’re within reach, that it’s possible. You only really find out what level you’re at when you race. It’s a reward for all the hard work and sacrifices, and it gives you confidence too!”
Gorka Gerrikagoitia, Sports Director:
“We wanted one of our riders to get into the breakaway, and we were delighted that Sylvain (Moniquet) managed to do so. He rode a superb race. Sam (Maisonobe) finished in the top 20, which is a really great performance from him. As for Ion, simply making it to the start line was a victory in itself. He wasn’t at 100%, but he gave it everything, as he always does. There were bound to be a lot of emotions. Ion can be proud of everything he has achieved, and all of us in the team would like to thank him for everything he has given us.”