Simone Velasco – Professional Cyclist Profile
Simone Velasco is an Italian professional road cyclist known for his aggressive racing style, versatility in one-day races, and capacity to animate breakaways in the biggest events on the WorldTour calendar. Born in Bologna, Velasco has built a reputation as a dynamic puncheur and classic contender, consistently delivering strong results across a variety of terrain and race formats.
Rider Bio
Velasco began his cycling journey in Italy’s rich amateur scene, quickly standing out with wins in races such as the Coppa della Pace and Ruota d’Oro. He turned professional in 2016 and steadily rose through the European ranks, catching the attention of WorldTour teams with his tenacity and race intelligence.
His early successes in one-day events and mid-week stage races helped establish him as a rider capable of seizing opportunities from breakaways and responding to the unpredictable rhythm of pro racing. Velasco combines tactical acumen with strong endurance and punchy acceleration—traits that make him a threat in both classics and high-tempo stages.
Professional Career Overview
Velasco’s breakthrough came with notable victories in races such as Trofeo Laigueglia (2019) and Stage 3 of the Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana (2023). He also claimed the Italian National Road Race Championship in 2023, a prestigious title in his home country.
Riding for the WorldTour-level XDS Astana Team, Velasco has been a regular feature in top-level races, including Grand Tours like the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France, where he has gained valuable experience and shown his resilience against the world’s best.
Racing Style and Strengths
Velasco excels in races that reward aggression, strength over rolling terrain, and tactical nous. Unlike pure climbers or sprinters, his strength lies in races where intelligent positioning, well-timed attacks, and sustained power on short climbs are decisive.
His ability to stay active in breakaways and to contest results from reduced groups makes him a valuable asset for team strategies and a consistent threat in one-day events and hilly stages.
Key Results
- Trofeo Laigueglia – Winner (2019)
- Stage wins at Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana & Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali
- Italian National Road Race Champion (2023)
- Strong Classics Placings, including 4th at Liège-Bastogne-Liège (2025)
- Regular top-10 finishes in European one-day races
Team
XDS Astana Team (UCI WorldTeam)
Five Things to Know About Neve Bradbury
1. Italian Classics Specialist
Velasco is known for his ability to compete in tough one-day races and classics across Europe.
2. Italian National Champion (2023)
Earning the tricolour jersey was one of the highlights of his career.
3. Breakaway Threat
He frequently animates races from the front, clocking significant attack kilometres.
4. Versatile Racer
Velasco delivers results in varied terrain, from rolling races to hilly classics.
5. Experienced WorldTour Competitor
He’s competed in multiple Grand Tours and top-level international races.
What’s Next for Simone Velasco
As the WorldTour calendar continues to feature demanding classics and stage races, Velasco is poised to build on his palmarès with further standout performances in European races and potential breakthrough results in iconic events.
