Virtus is proud to announce the appointment of Gilles Richiero as the new Sports Director for Cycling. With a lifelong passion for cycling and a strong background in organizing inclusive and competitive events, Gilles is set to lead the Virtus cycling program into an exciting new era.

Hailing from Grenoble, France, Gilles has dedicated much of his life to cycling, both as a competitor and as a mentor. He actively participates in road cycling and mountain biking and has competed in motorcycle-paced races (Derny, Demi-Fond), even securing Vice-Champion of France in 2023. His deep involvement in the sport extends to his family, with his son Ange currently competing in the French para-cycling pole.

Beyond his personal achievements, Gilles has made a lasting impact on adaptive cycling. As a federally certified coach, he has played a key role in supervising cycling schools and fostering an inclusive training environment for athletes with disabilities. His commitment to making cycling accessible is evident in his work with the French Federation of Adapted Sports (FFSA), where he actively promotes competitive opportunities for athletes with intellectual impairments.

Gilles is no stranger to organizing high-level cycling competitions. He has successfully managed several competitive cycling events, most recently the 2024 Open Virtus Time Trial in Roybon-Chambaran, demonstrating his ability to deliver world-class events that align with Virtus’ mission of excellence and inclusion.

His leadership within FFSA’s National Sports Commission for Adapted Sport has further reinforced his ability to promote and develop para-cycling at all levels. His expertise in event organization, athlete development, and inclusion strategies makes him the perfect candidate to oversee the future growth of Virtus Cycling.

Gilles’ leadership will play a pivotal role in expanding competition pathways, enhancing technical standards, and ensuring that cycling remains an inclusive sport for all athletes.

Reflecting on his new role, Gilles shares,

“Cycling has been a major part of my life, and I am honoured to take on this position. My goal is to create a thriving, inclusive cycling community within Virtus, offering athletes with intellectual impairments the best opportunities to compete and grow in the sport.”

With the 2027 Virtus Global Games on the horizon, Gilles is eager to contribute to the development of an elite and inclusive cycling program that will leave a lasting impact on the global stage.

Virtus warmly welcomes Gilles Richiero to the team and looks forward to the future of cycling under his leadership!

Chiara Zeni, a record-breaking athlete whose dedication, resilience, and passion for sport have made her a role model for many. Chiara’s talent shone brightly at the Virtus Global Games 2023, where she clinched three gold medals and set three new world records in the II2 Women’s 100m, 200m, and long jump. While she was the favourite to win, she acknowledges that success is never guaranteed until the finish line is crossed.

“I was very happy with my results, and I had a lot of fun,” she says.

Born in Lugano, Switzerland, Chiara holds both Italian and Swiss nationalities and has been breaking barriers in sports despite the challenges she has faced due to her intellectual impairment. From a young age, Chiara was full of energy. She recalls how she was drawn to running after seeing her first track training sessions, wanting to be there every day. That passion soon translated into hard work and success, as she trained alongside fully able athletes. Though the pace was challenging, it pushed her to improve and reach new heights.

“When I run, I feel like I’m flying. I feel totally free,” she says, highlighting the sheer joy that athletics brings to her life.

Chiara Zeni flaunts all her GG2023 medals (L) and celebrates her win with her fellow team-mates (R). Photo Credit: Chiara and Kellerman Lens

Education and career opportunities were not always easily accessible for Chiara. Switzerland did not accept her into school due to her disability, but she was fortunate to study in Italy, where inclusion was prioritised. In sports, she initially faced doubts and discrimination, but her determination and talent quickly silenced her critics.

“At school, some classmates and teachers bullied me. But in sports, I was able to overcome people’s doubts by proving that I could do everything well,” she shares.

Even today, professional career opportunities remain limited, with Chiara only being able to pursue internships rather than full-time employment in Switzerland. However, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of excellence, both on and off the track. Chiara looks up to legendary athletes such as Usain Bolt, Pietro Mennea, and Jessie Owens—icons who defied odds and made history. She also admires contemporary long jump stars Larissa Iapichino and Mattia Furlani, whose achievements continue to inspire her.

Competing in Virtus events has given Chiara the platform to measure her skills against the world’s best athletes with Down syndrome. More than just rivals on the track, these athletes share a deep sense of camaraderie and friendship.

“My biggest dream is that, through Virtus, II2 athletes can soon participate in the Paralympics,” she states with hope.

Chiara eagerly anticipates the Global Games 2027 in Egypt and hopes the Italian National Team will include II2 athletes. Her personal goal? To improve even more and win every race she competes in.

Beyond sports, Chiara finds joy in singing, dancing, reading, and socializing. Like many young people, she dreams of finding love one day. But above all, her ultimate goal is simple yet profound: to be good to others and to enjoy life.

On World Down Syndrome Day, Chiara shares an empowering message for young athletes:

“Everyone is good at something and not so good at something else—it doesn’t matter what. To achieve your dreams, you must believe in them and commit yourself. But the most important thing, like my idol Pietro Mennea always said, is to HAVE FUN!”

Chiara Zeni is not just an athlete; she is a symbol of perseverance, inclusion, and hope. As she continues to break records and inspire others, her story reminds us all that with determination and passion, anything is possible.

Virtus wishes people with Down Syndrome around the world a very Happy World Down Syndrome Day. As the world celebrates World Down Syndrome Day, Virtus will be shining a spotlight on some of our remarkable athletes who continue to defy expectations and inspire the global sports community.

Kobayashi Michiko, a swimmer from the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ has made waves at the 2023 Virtus Global Games with her extraordinary achievements. Hailing from Fukui, Japan, Michiko grew up in a supportive family alongside her parents and older sister. Reflecting on her biggest cheerleaders, she says,

“My father and the members of my local para-swimming team have been my greatest supporters. Their encouragement has helped me push my limits.”

Admiration for fellow swimmer Ayako Morishita played a key role in her motivation. She was ‘amazed’ when she saw Ayako swimming the 200-meter butterfly for the first time and realised that ‘swimmers with Down syndrome have the strength to compete on the world stage’.

Born with a heart condition, Michiko took up swimming as a child to improve her health and physical strength. Her passion for the sport grew, and as she progressed in her training, she found excitement in collecting badges at her local swimming school. “I love the feeling of being in the water. My body feels lighter and free,” she shares.

Like many athletes, Michiko faced challenges along the way. She explains,

“Sometimes, when my coach gives instructions with words, I don’t always understand. Watching videos makes it easier for me to follow.”

She also faced negative attitudes from others due to her appearance and slower movements, but she never let that discourage her. “I always had friends, teachers, and family who supported me with warmth and encouragement,” she says with gratitude.

Michiko swimming towards her world record in 100m Breaststroke at GG2023 (L) and posing with her medal with her fellow swimmers (R). Photo Credit: Kellerman Lens and Caroline Detrez

Virtus competitions have played a vital role in Michiko’s journey, allowing her to race against some of the fastest II2 athletes in the world. At the 2023 Virtus Global Games (GG2023), Michiko stunned the world by breaking the World Record in women’s II2 100m breaststroke event twice in a row. She swam a time of 1:42.69 sec in the heats to set the first record and later broke her own record in the finals clocking an impressive time of 1:39.86 seconds. She also set the record for 200m Breaststroke with a timing of 3:41.82 sec, winning two gold medals. Reflecting on her achievement, she says,

“I never imagined setting a world record. Before the race, my father told me, ‘You’ve done everything you can, now just swim your best.’ That gave me the confidence I needed.”

Competing in GG2023 as part of the Japanese national team in the II2 category was a thrilling experience for her. The event’s energetic atmosphere and vibrant opening ceremony in Vichy left a lasting impression, especially ‘the citywide parade and the opening ceremony at the grand opera house were unforgettable’ for her.

She is now setting her sights on the 2026 Virtus Asian-Oceania Regional Games in Thailand and the 2027 Virtus Global Games in Cairo. Her next challenge? “I don’t have the world record in the 50m breaststroke yet, so my goal is to shave off another second,” she says determinedly.

Beyond the pool, Michiko’s ultimate goal in life is simple yet profound: “To stay healthy and dedicate myself to what interests me.”

On this special day, Michiko shares a heartfelt message for young athletes with Down syndrome:

“I am so happy to have found swimming, a sport I can truly immerse myself in. I have met friends from all over the world who share the same goals. I hope you also enjoy your favourite sport and keep moving toward your dreams.”

With her unwavering spirit, determination, and love for swimming, Kobayashi Michiko is not just making waves in the pool—she is making history.

Torrevieja, Alicante, is set to welcome athletes and spectators from around the globe as it hosts the 2025 Virtus World Futsal Championship from November 29 to December 8, 2025. This prestigious event will bring together top futsal players with intellectual impairment, furthering the city’s commitment to inclusivity and sports excellence. Virtus member in Spain, Federación Española de Deportes para personas con Discapacidad Intelectual (FEDDI) will be organising the event.

Torrevieja has established itself as a premier destination for international sporting events, previously hosting competitions such as the Mediterranean International Regatta, the International City of Torrevieja Half Marathon, and the World Youth Sailing Championships. With its scenic Mediterranean coastline and strong sports infrastructure, the city continues to attract world-class events that boost tourism and foster community engagement.

“The Virtus World Futsal Championship is not just a competition—it is an opportunity to raise awareness about sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities. A key objective of this event is to ensure that athletes with an intellectual impairment have the same access to competitive sports as everyone else,” said Celia Garote, Executive Director of FEDDI.

“Our aim is for more people in Spain to understand who FEDDI and Virtus are and the crucial work we do to promote inclusivity in sports. We are confident that hosting this event will help us take a significant step forward in this mission,” she further added.

The championship will take place at the Palacio de los Deportes de Torrevieja “Tavi y Carmona”, a modern multi-sport facility with a 3,500-seat capacity, making it ideal for large-scale international tournaments. The venue features state-of-the-art futsal courts and is well-equipped to host athletes, coaches, and fans in a dynamic and energetic atmosphere.

Adding to the excitement, the championship will coincide with the Torrevieja Patron Saint Festival, providing visitors with the unique opportunity to experience the city’s rich cultural traditions alongside world-class sporting action.

For the information pack and other information, visit the Virtus event calendar.

Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to this landmark event!

The excitement continued on Day 3 of the 2025 Virtus World Nordic Skiing Championships in Bessans, with high-stakes relay events taking center stage. Teams from across the globe battled through the snow, delivering electrifying performances that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. France and neutral banner athletes emerged as the dominant forces, claiming multiple victories and showcasing remarkable teamwork and endurance.

(L-R) Neutral, France and Estonia, champions of Men’s relay race at Bessans’s 2025. Photo Credit: Geoffrey Wahlen

The French duo of Guebey Yann and Dubois Titouan thrilled the home crowd with a stellar performance, clinching gold with a time of 12:54.77. The neutral team of Charushnikov Aleksandr and Sorokin Aleksandr followed in second place at 13:27.14, displaying impressive synchronization and speed. Estonia’s Pärn Greg-Emil and Teearu Hanscrossed the finish line at 14:14.10, securing a well-earned bronze.

(L-R France, Neutral and Japan, Winners of Women’s relay race at Bessans 2025. Photo credit: Geoffrey Wahlen

 In a dominant display, Kashevarova Alina and Guber Irina, competing under the neutral banner, surged to victory with a commanding time of 16:20.75. France’s Petitnicolas Manon and Thiroux Lea battled hard for silver, finishing at 18:06.13. Japan’s Shimura Ririsu and Oba Aoi rounded out the podium, earning bronze with a time of 20:03.86.

Champions of Mixed relay race, France, Neutral, Japan (L-R) at Bessans’s 2025. Photo Credit: Geoffrey Wahlen

The mixed relay event saw another gold medal for the neutral banner team as Volegov Ivan and Guber Irina dominated the course, finishing at 14:28.93. The French pair of Garin Joseph and Thiroux Lea secured silver in 17:28.87, putting up a strong fight. Japan’s Nishimura Junichi and Nakazawa Kei delivered an impressive effort to claim bronze, crossing the finish line at 19:11.32.

In Men’s II2, Oltolina Mattia and Kostenr Tobia Maria were awarded gold medal for their tru sportsmanship in men’s relay event.

Day 3 of the Virtus World Nordic Skiing Championships was a testament to the power of teamwork and resilience. With strong performances across all relay categories, France and neutral banner athletes solidified their dominance, while Estonia and Japan made their mark on the podium. As the championships continue, the competition remains fierce, and more exhilarating races are on the horizon.

Stay tuned for more updates from Bessans 2025 as the world’s best para-athletes continue their quest for glory!