Italy’s 1990s superstar Stefania Belmondo is back wearing a race bib, finishing 20th in a prestigious competition on Sunday.

Despite the heatwave, cross-country skiing star Stefania Belmondo of the 1990s raced to a 20th-place finish in the prestigious Granfondo La Fausto Coppi Generali.

The 111-kilometer road race, featuring over 2,500 meters of elevation gain, draws hundreds of riders each year to the Cuneo region in Italy.

“I actually expected to hit the wall,” the 56-year-old told La Stampa.

The idea to participate in the popular race wasn’t actually Belmondo’s; it came from her nephew.

“When my nephew challenged me, I couldn’t resist. He enjoys sports, especially running, and wanted to do something with me in the Piedmont region,” she explained.

“I know the Fauniera well, and I have climbed it from all sides. I trained in my free time, after work. So, I won’t pretend I’m in top shape,” Belmondo said modestly.

But the Olympic and World Champion completed the demanding course in exactly five hours, finishing 20th in the women’s category.

Whether Belmondo plans to enter more competitions remains uncertain.

Stefania Belmondo

Stefania Belmondo retired after the 2002 Olympic season. Following her competitive career, she transitioned to television and now works as a commentator for the Italian broadcaster RAI.

Also Read: What happened to the 1997 World Champions?

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