Pope Leo XIV blesses peloton ahead of final stage of Giro d'Italia
Pope Leo XIV addresses the pack of cyclists passing by the Vatican during the 21st and last stage of the 108th Giro d'Italia cycling race, 205km from Verres to Sestriere. Vatican Media/IPA via ZUMA Press/dpa
The Giro d'Italia peloton was blessed by Pope Leo XIV ahead of its final day of competition on Sunday.
The Pope greeted the field before the start of the 143-kilometre stage, which began in Vatican City to pay tribute to the new leader of the Catholic Church and bid farewell to Pope Francis, before entering the official circuit.
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Before riding through the Vatican, overall leader Simon Yates and the other cyclists shook hands with the Pope, who in return received a pink jersey, traditionally worn by the race leader.
"Cycling is so important. Thank you for everything you do. I hope you always remember your role as a role model for others. You are always welcome here," the Pope said.
The stop in the Vatican was reportedly one of the last decisions of Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday. It's the first time that the final Giro stage has passed through the Vatican.
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