July 7, 2025 — Milan, Italy
In a moment that transcends the world of professional sport, cycling superstar Filippo Ganna has stunned fans and fellow athletes by announcing that he will donate his entire 2025 season salary to pediatric cancer research — a historic and heartfelt gesture that is being hailed as one of the most generous acts ever seen in modern cycling.
Ganna, a multiple-time World Time Trial Champion and Olympic medalist, made the announcement during a surprise press conference held at a children’s hospital in Milan, surrounded by young cancer patients and their families. The 28-year-old Italian broke down in tears as he spoke about the inspiration behind his decision.
“Winning medals is amazing,” Ganna said, his voice trembling. “But nothing compares to the fight these kids go through every single day. If I can help even one child live a longer, healthier life — then that’s worth more than any podium.”
A Champion On and Off the Bike
Ganna’s gesture involves the donation of his entire 2025 UCI World Tour salary, believed to be in excess of €2 million, to several hospitals and pediatric oncology programs across Italy and Europe. His personal sponsors have also pledged to match his contribution, potentially tripling the total donation amount.
According to sources close to Team INEOS Grenadiers, the move was entirely Ganna’s idea, and he coordinated the effort quietly for months.
“Filippo didn’t want any headlines,” said a team representative. “But once the impact of what he was doing became clear, the cycling world deserved to know the kind of man he really is.”
“Some Wins Matter More Than Cycling”
The theme of Ganna’s message — “Some wins matter more than cycling” — has quickly gone viral, with athletes across sports sharing his story and applauding his compassion. Tour de France champion Tadej Pogačar tweeted, “This is what greatness looks like. Massive respect to Filippo.”
Tennis star Jannik Sinner posted, “Filippo, you’ve just raised the bar for all of us — not just as athletes, but as humans.”
Even Italian President Sergio Mattarella issued a statement: “Filippo Ganna is not just a hero in sport — he is a hero in life.”
Inspired by a Young Fan
Ganna shared that his motivation stemmed from a visit he made last year to a cancer ward in Turin, where he met Luca, a 9-year-old fan battling leukemia. The two bonded over a shared love of cycling and Formula 1. When Luca passed away late last year, Ganna made a quiet vow to turn his grief into purpose.
“Luca told me, ‘You’re fast, but I’m brave.’ He was right,” Ganna said. “This donation is for him, and for every child who’s had to be braver than they should ever need to be.”
Moving Forward with Purpose
Though Ganna will continue to compete in all major races this season — including the Tour de France and World Championships — he’s made it clear that his mission off the bike will carry equal weight. Plans are already underway to launch a long-term Ganna Foundation for Pediatric Hope, which will fund ongoing research, treatment access, and family support for children with cancer.
Team INEOS has confirmed they will contribute a percentage of their annual earnings to the cause, and fellow riders have expressed interest in starting a “Riders for Hope” coalition.
A Legacy Bigger Than Gold
Cycling has seen its fair share of legendary riders, but Filippo Ganna may have just cemented a legacy that outshines all medals and world titles. In a world often driven by endorsements and personal gain, his decision to sacrifice millions for the well-being of children is a rare and powerful reminder of the human spirit behind the sport.
As one young patient at the Milan hospital whispered through a smile:
“He’s not just fast. He’s a superhero.”
And today, the cycling world stands still — in awe of a man whose greatest victory may have just happened off the bike.
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