Marta Cavalli, the 26-year-old Italian climber known for her aggressive tactics and fearless spirit in the women’s peloton, is set to depart from FDJ-SUEZ after four seasons. Cavalli, who joined the French squad in 2021, rose to prominence with some standout performances, but her recent years have been marred by a string of injuries. Her destination for the 2025 season remains unconfirmed, though whispers in the cycling world suggest a move to Team dsm-firmenich PostNL.
In a heartfelt farewell, FDJ-SUEZ praised Cavalli’s contributions, acknowledging her hard work and dedication. “We want to thank her from the bottom of our hearts for everything she has done for the team, her incredible performances, and her professionalism. We wish Marta the best for the rest of her career and a quick return to the highest level,” the team said, reflecting their appreciation for her commitment.
Breakthrough and a star in the making
Cavalli burst onto the top-tier racing scene in 2022, surprising fans and pundits alike with a crafty late attack that secured her a remarkable victory at the Amstel Gold Race. Only a few days later, she demonstrated her dominance by taking the win at La Flèche Wallonne in impressive fashion, further cementing her reputation as a promising force in the peloton.
Later that same year, Cavalli continued her rise by placing fourth at the Itzulia Women and winning the Mont Ventoux Dénivelé Challenge. Her consistency paid off at the Giro d’Italia Donne, where she finished second overall behind the untouchable Annemiek van Vleuten. At this point, many expected Cavalli to carve out a successful and enduring career in women’s cycling.
Injury setbacks and mental struggles
However, Cavalli’s trajectory took an unexpected turn during the Tour de France Femmes 2022, a race that would become a pivotal moment in her career. Cavalli crashed heavily after being struck by Nicole Frain, sustaining multiple fractures. While she managed to recover from the physical injuries, the mental toll proved a more significant challenge. Cavalli later admitted to grappling with “peloton anxiety,” a lingering fear that affected her confidence and performance.
Cavalli made a determined comeback in 2023, picking up wins at smaller races and showing signs of a return to form. However, early in the 2024 season, she suffered another setback when she fell during a training ride near Benidorm, sustaining a hip contusion that sidelined her once again. Although she returned to racing in March, her bad luck continued in July when she was struck by a vehicle during a training session. While no fractures were reported, the incident disrupted her momentum, and she has not raced since withdrawing from La Vuelta Femenina in early May.
For Cavalli, her departure from FDJ-SUEZ represents a crossroads in her career, and the cycling world awaits her next move. The possibility of joining Team dsm-firmenich PostNL could offer a fresh start and a chance to regain the form that once made her a contender on the biggest stages.
