Silvio Martinello pays an emotional tribute to Gianluca Pierobon: “He probably didn’t get what he deserved.”

Silvio Martinello paid tribute on social media to Gianluca Pierobon, his former teammate who passed away at age 59. “I wasn’t aware of his serious health issues or the difficulties he faced in life,” he began. “Reading this news about someone I crossed paths with on my own journey, I feel compelled to take a moment.”

“Gianluca turned pro in 1989 with Atala, led by Franco Cribiori—the same team I’d been riding for since 1988—so I had the chance to get to know him and appreciate his athletic and personal qualities. He was a very curious young man who wanted to carve out a place for himself as quickly as possible in the tough world of professional cycling.”

“Franco Cribiori was the right man to help him; unfortunately, that team folded at the end of that season, and we were all forced to look for other teams where we could continue racing. He changed teams many times; as a pro, he probably didn’t achieve as much as he deserved, but that’s happened—and still happens—to many, unfortunately.”

“I was also saddened to learn of the personal struggles he faced in the working world after his athletic career; the transition isn’t easy for anyone. In racing, you recognize your opponents by the number on their backs; in life, they often hide behind the guise of a ‘friend.’ It’s very sad to learn that serious health problems took him away from the love of his loved ones. For a man who, thanks to his athletic and physical abilities, competed professionally, this is hard to accept, but life has a plan for each of us, and we can only accept it. Rest in peace, dear Gianluca!”