Carapaz forced to delay return after heartbreaking news: “I love you, mum”

Carapaz enjoyed a strong 2025 campaign, with the Giro d’Italia as his main objective. The 32-year-old was largely quiet through the spring, but came alive in Italy: he climbed brilliantly and even won stage 11. Those results turned him into the main challenger to maglia rosa holder Isaac Del Toro during the decisive final week.

That head-to-head ultimately ended in disappointment. On the Colle delle Finestre, Carapaz and Del Toro watched each other closely, and the lack of collaboration allowed Simon Yates to ride away. It left both riders frustrated — Carapaz, in particular, knowing a second Giro victory had been within reach before settling for third overall. The remainder of his season then lost momentum, in part due to illness.

Focus then shifted to 2026. Carapaz was expected to make his season debut at the Trofeo Calvià on Mallorca, but when the one-day race was held he did not appear on the start list. (António Morgado took the win on the day.) So where was Carapaz?

The answer followed shortly afterwards. Carapaz revealed that his mother had died on Wednesday. In a message shared via his X account, he wrote: “My love for you has existed for as long as I can remember, and it will remain until my life is reunited with yours.” He added: “I love you, mum.

Under normal circumstances, the EF leader is expected to return to racing later in the Mallorca programme, with the Trofeo Andratx – Pollença scheduled for 31 January 2026. Everyone at IDLProcycling.com sends Richard Carapaz and his loved ones our sincere condolences during this difficult time.