Rien Schuurhuis: The Vatican’s Cycling Pioneer

Rien Schuurhuis never anticipated winning the cycling world championships or coming close to claiming the prestigious rainbow jersey. As the sole representative of the Vatican City in a field of 200 riders, his presence at the race in Switzerland was enough of an achievement.

“If you just do cycling for winning, then most cyclists will be very miserable,” Schuurhuis tells CNN Sport. “A lot of riders, not only me, know before they start that they’re not going to win.”

This year’s world championships marked the latest chapter of Schuurhuis’ sporting journey with the Vatican, making history as the first cyclist to compete for the tiny city-state at an elite level.

Since 2022, after the International Cycling Union (UCI) recognized the Vatican as a member, the Dutch-born rider has participated in three world championships and the European Championships in Belgium, proudly donning his team’s yellow and white jersey at each event.

With a population of just 1,000 people, the Vatican’s presence in major cycling races may seem unlikely, but Schuurhuis has garnered a small but devoted fan base over the years.

At every race, Schuurhuis aims to raise awareness about the Vatican team and its message of inclusion and solidarity.

Athletica Vaticana, the Vatican’s first official sports association, was established in 2019 with a mission to promote unity and teamwork through sports. Pope Francis highlighted cycling as a means to uphold values of selflessness, generosity, and community.

Despite being the only representative for the Vatican in major races, Schuurhuis receives support from a small management team, including former professional cyclist Valerio Agnoli.

Athletica Vaticana comprises priests, bishops, religious sisters, laypeople, Swiss Guards, and diplomats, embodying a diverse and inclusive sporting community.

Reflecting on his journey, Schuurhuis emphasizes the impact of sport in fostering social cohesion and unity, transcending barriers and differences.

‘Sport is such a leveler’

A former soccer player and avid cyclist, Schuurhuis transitioned to competitive cycling after playing in the I-League in India and competing for semi-professional teams in Asia.

His connection to the Vatican’s sporting endeavors was facilitated by his wife, Chiara Porro, Australia’s Ambassador to the Holy See, who has also been actively involved in state-sponsored sporting initiatives.

Porro underscores the role of sport in building communities, promoting peace, and fostering development, highlighting its significance alongside education and culture.

The Vatican’s engagement with sports dates back to Pope John Paul II, an enthusiastic skier and swimmer, and continues with Pope Francis, a soccer fan who advocates for the unifying power of sports.

Under Pope Francis’ leadership, the Vatican’s involvement in sports has expanded, with Athletica Vaticana at the forefront of promoting solidarity and spiritual values through athletic pursuits.

Looking ahead, Porro envisions the Vatican’s participation in the Olympics, setting sights on the 2032 Brisbane Games as a potential milestone for the state’s sporting ambitions.

As Schuurhuis and Porro prepare to return to Australia after their time in Rome, the cyclist remains committed to his passion for cycling, expressing gratitude for the joy and fulfillment it brings him each day.

“This is who I am, this is what makes me happy,” Schuurhuis affirms. “Going out for a ride is usually the best moment of the day, leaving me energized and inspired.”