Team Novo Nordisk returns to Philadelphia Cycling Classic with message of perseverance

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Philadelphia Cycling Classic is welcoming back Team Novo Nordisk, a professional cycling team whose riders all compete while living with Type 1 diabetes.

The team is using its appearance at this year's race not only to compete, but also to inspire others living with the condition, particularly children.

David Lozano, a member of Team Novo Nordisk, said he was told his cycling career was over after he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

"I needed to overcome this challenge I had," he said. "Not only if you're diagnosed with diabetes or in any circumstances, you're gonna have challenges, and what is important is the way you overcome them, no?"
Lozano said.

The 37-year-old turned professional at 18 and became an 11-time Spanish national mountain bike and cyclocross champion.

Although his diagnosis interrupted his career, he continued pursuing the sport and joined Team Novo Nordisk.

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The Philadelphia Cycling Classic returns to the city on August 30, 2026 after a decade without a race and we have some of the best watch spots to catch the action. The all-day event features a women's race in the morning and a men's race in the afternoon.

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According to the team, Lozano has competed in more than 1,000 cycling races. He said he will complete 55 race days by the end of this season.

The team hopes its presence at the Philadelphia Cycling Classic will help raise awareness about living with Type 1 diabetes and demonstrate what is possible for people with the condition.

"Having us racing all over the globe in one of the most challenging sports, in my opinion, I think is one of the best ways to show that with diabetes, you don't need to stop dreaming," Lozano said.

As part of its outreach efforts at the race, Team Novo Nordisk will host a tent at the start and finish line on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

The team will also bring children living with Type 1 diabetes to meet the riders before the race.

For team members, the goal extends beyond competition, using their experiences to encourage others with diabetes to continue pursuing their goals.

For more details about the race, visit PhiladelphiaCyclingClassic.com.