Maurizio Fondriest has just just entered Gravel Burn, starting 2025 with the ultimate thrill of a new challenge. The Italian cycling legend will share the experience with his daughter Carlotta. In the year of his 60th birthday, the 1988 Road World Champion from Ronse is preparing for an adventure where he will relive some of the most memorable moments of his career, highlighted by his world title and victories at Milan–San Remo, La Flèche Wallonne, Tirreno–Adriatico, and two stages of the Giro d’Italia. This time, the goal is Gravel Burn 2025, a seven-stage gravel race in South Africa, taking place from 26 October to 1 November.
“I’ll start from my childhood, through my first victories, the World Championship, and all the incredible experiences I’ve had,” explains Fondriest. “My daughter will be by my side, and we’ll ride together for seven days. Every evening after the stages, we’ll gather around the campfire—the perfect setting to relive those memories. The stories we’ll tell each other are such an important part of cycling and this journey—a deeply meaningful element, just like the people I’ve met over the years. My wife, Ornella, and my children, Maria Vittoria and Lorenzo, will join us for the last few days and share this adventure, including the emotions of crossing the finish line.”
The idea came from a conversation between Fondriest and Kevin Vermaak, the founder of the Cape Epic. The aim is not only to reflect on the most poignant moments of his career but also to delve into childhood memories, his introduction to cycling, and the dreams and achievements that followed. The lead-up to the race will be a deeply introspective journey, with friends, family, and fellow champions contributing anecdotes, preparation insights, and technical tips.
“Maurizio and I first met 15 years ago,” said Vermaak, “when he came to the Cape Epic for the first time. It’s an incredible honour for me that he is returning to South Africa this year to celebrate such an important milestone in his life, coinciding with the debut of our race. I’m looking forward to showing Maurizio and Carlotta the breathtaking gravel roads of the Karoo and immersing them in the community spirit of Gravel Burn, which is shared with off-road riders from all over the world.”
Fondriest does not expect to compete against today’s top pros. Instead, he’ll focus on one of the event’s highlights—the stunning and diverse scenery. From Knysna to Shamwari Private Game Reserve, riders traverse the heart of the Great Karoo, surrounded by unspoilt nature and raw beauty.
“I love the idea that the route reflects what we experience in life,” reflects Fondriest. “It demands adaptability; sometimes the path is rough and uncomfortable. But it is only by pushing ourselves and going beyond our limits that we can discover the beauty that lies ahead.”
If you’re in Italy, catch Maurizio on Rai 2 tomorrow, Saturday, 11 January, at 18:30. A special programme will share more details about this unique adventure. If you’d like to meet the man himself and share the Gravel Burn experience in October, register now 😉
