Giro dell'Emilia: Nairo Quintana retires as Piganzoli and Vigilia win

The 109th edition of the Giro dell'Emilia in Italy served as a historic milestone for professional cycling, marked by the retirement of Colombian legend Nairo Quintana and significant victories in both men's and women's categories.

Nairo Quintana, a former winner of the Giro d'Italia and Vuelta a España, competed in his final professional race. The peloton honored the 36-year-old climber with a ceremonial guard of honor, recognizing his 17-season career and status as one of South America’s most successful cyclists. Quintana, riding for Movistar Team, concluded a career that included 53 professional victories and multiple podium finishes in the Tour de France.

In the men's race, Davide Piganzoli of Visma | Lease a Bike secured a solo victory after a decisive attack with approximately 5 kilometers remaining. Piganzoli managed to hold off a late charge from Tom Pidcock to win on the San Luca climb. In the women's Elite category, Alessia Vigilia of Uno-X Mobility claimed victory following a strong performance on the challenging Bologna circuit.

The event, which began in Ferrara and concluded in Bologna, highlighted the transition of eras in the sport, blending the farewell of a decorated veteran with the rise of new champions.