David Valero, a prominent Spanish mountain biker, has embarked on a new chapter in his career by transitioning from cross-country mountain biking to marathon cycling. At 37 years old, he has made a significant change in his professional life, leaving behind the cross-country style in which he gained notable achievements, including an Olympic bronze in 2020 and a world championship silver in 2022. Valero's debut in the MTB Marathon World Cup at the Hero Costa Blanca was marked by excitement and high expectations as he aimed to become the first Spaniard to clinch a victory in one of the circuit's events.

In his debut event, Valero demonstrated impressive skills and determination, finishing in third place behind the winner, Wout Alleman from Belgium, and German rider Andreas Seewald. The race illustrated Valero's potential in this new discipline, as he steadily closed the gap on Seewald towards the race's conclusion, showcasing both his endurance and racing strategy. This performance not only validates Valero's decision to switch disciplines but also sets a strong precedent for his future ambitions in the marathon cycling circuit.

Valero's shift to marathon racing comes at a pivotal moment in his career, as he seeks to redefine himself in the highly competitive world of mountain biking. His podium finish serves as a springboard for future competitions, including aspirations to compete for the overall championship in the series. As he fully transitions into this new phase, Valero's journey will be closely watched by fans and supporters, eager to see how he leverages his past experiences to succeed in marathon events.