“I’d tell myself to do the same, I’m at peace” – Fernando Gaviria has no regrets about a career of highs and lows

After two difficult seasons at Movistar Team, Fernando Gaviria believes he has found the opportunity he needed to reconnect with his best form. The Colombian sprinter, who has raced for some of the most powerful teams in the international peloton, admits he reached a point of deep uncertainty, even questioning whether he should continue in professional cycling at all.

Speaking in an interview with Marca from the Tour of Oman, Gaviria explains that it was not physical exhaustion that pushed him to the brink, but the mental strain of not knowing what the future held. “In the end, I think it was the uncertainty, not having anything concrete. Not knowing clearly what was going to happen next makes you think about everything, even about quitting.”

Just as that uncertainty peaked, Caja Rural – Seguros RGA stepped in with what Gaviria describes as a decisive and personal show of faith. The move not only stabilised his future, but could even open the door to a return to the Tour de France.

What convinced him was not just the sporting project, but the way the team approached him. “We had three calls that, beyond the sporting side, showed me that they really wanted me on the team. That’s what convinced me to continue.”

The support of those closest to him also played a major role in the decision to carry on, given the sacrifices required by life as a professional cyclist. “A lot. In the end we spend a huge amount of time away from home, far from family, and their opinion carries a lot of weight. Now we’re enjoying ourselves and I think we made the right decision.”

After spells with WorldTour teams such as Quick-Step and Movistar, Gaviria has found a noticeably different atmosphere at Caja Rural, one he describes as more personal, yet still competitive.

“Exactly that, it’s very family-oriented. It’s a relatively small team, but the difference compared to a WorldTour team isn’t as huge as people might think. I feel comfortable and happy to be here.”

That sense of comfort extends to his role within the team. Gaviria is clear that any pressure he feels comes from within.

“I put the pressure on myself, because I’m the one who wants to win. In every sprint I’m going to try. We’re working well as a team and I believe the victory will come on the day you least expect it.”

Despite his experience and palmarès, he is keen to blend into the group rather than position himself above it.

“Like one more. I don’t like to create differences. I feel part of the group and that’s how I like to be treated.”

That mindset contrasts with the final stretch of his time at Movistar, particularly the way his non-selection for the Tour de France unfolded.

“Not exactly. I had prepared for it, and not knowing until the very last moment created a lot of uncertainty. Finding out through a post was what upset me the most. Even so, I understand the team and I respect the decision they made.”

Despite the disappointment, Gaviria insists he carries no resentment.

“It was something that had to happen. I’m also happy to have been part of such a big team.”

With Caja Rural now holding an invitation to the 2026 Tour de France, Gaviria feels the sense of purpose returning. The motivation was already there, but the confirmation has raised expectations across the entire organisation.

“The motivation was already there when we were talking with the team and the option of riding a Grand Tour was mentioned. Now, with the Tour invitation, it’s a much greater responsibility for everyone — riders, mechanics, staff. The team has to take a big step to arrive in July in the best possible condition.”

Even so, he is careful not to rush into long-term goals such as completing stage wins across all three Grand Tours.

“I want to take it calmly and enjoy it. With the Tour alone we already have a very demanding calendar. We’re focused on this season and then we’ll see.”

The sporting challenge ahead will be considerable, with sprint finishes contested against some of the strongest names in the peloton. Gaviria is eager to test himself.

“Hopefully. Let’s hope we’re at our best level and that the team takes us there. The approach will be clear and the idea is to be in a position to fight to be among the best.”

More than results, however, Gaviria stresses the importance of emotional stability.

“Right now I’m enjoying myself a lot, above all because of the emotional support from the team. I’m calm. Continuity will depend on them and also on possible offers, but that’s not something we’re thinking about right now.”

At 31, with 52 professional victories to his name, Gaviria looks back with clarity rather than regret. Some moments remain untouchable.

“I wouldn’t trade the yellow jersey for anything. It’s a dream for almost all cyclists and a privilege for very few.”

And if he could speak to the young rider who once stunned the peloton by beating Mark Cavendish in San Luis, his message would be simple:

“I’d tell him to do the same. Everything I’ve done has brought me here and taught me a lot. I’m at peace with that.”