Former Pro Cyclist Pierre Rolland Trades Road Racing for Gravel Challenge
GIEN, France – Former professional road cyclist Pierre Rolland is embarking on a new chapter in his athletic career, transitioning to gravel racing and beginning a competition in Morocco this September. The 36-year-old Loiret native recently concluded his years competing for stage wins and overall rankings in conventional road cycling, seeking a lighter, more exploratory approach to the sport.
Rolland’s shift represents a growing trend within professional cycling, as athletes explore the burgeoning discipline of gravel racing-a hybrid of road and off-road cycling gaining popularity for its accessibility and adventurous spirit. Unlike the specialized, lightweight bikes of road racing, Rolland’s gravel bike will weigh between 17 and 18 kilograms.The Moroccan competition, while still a race, is framed by Rolland as an prospect for personal enjoyment and cultural immersion, with a focus on experiencing a new environment rather than solely chasing results.
“Ambition is to take maximum pleasure. There is not an ambition at the end of the result. I want to take my time a little bit and look at a little bit what’s going on. But also discover a culture that I do not know,” Rolland explained, eager to begin the new phase of his career.
Fans can follow Rolland’s adventure through his social media channels, specifically Instagram, from September 19 to 21, 2025.
