Interview: Star In The Making – Massi Ambrosi
Winning the U23 South African Championships and placing 15th at the World Championships are both outstanding achievements. Doing so at just 20 years old marks a remarkable breakout season for Jozi’s own Massi Ambrosi. We recently caught up with Massi for a chat about his riding, racing and life off the bike. Here’s Massi!
Age, where are you from and where do you live?
I’m 20 years old and currently based In Johannesburg, South Africa.
What does your average day look like?
My day usually starts at 6am with breakfast and a coffee before heading out for training. I train till around lunch time/early afternoon – then do my strength sessions, when required. Now with me being home and having two younger brothers I help with fetching them, taking them to sports and helping where I can – basically an uber driver. Haha. Then I like to cook, so I’ll generally cook dinner for the family.
How and when did you get into riding?
I grew up surrounded by two wheels, motorbikes and bicycles. My family and I spent years riding motorbikes every weekend until we eventually made the switch to bicycles, thinking it would be cheaper – which we quickly discovered wasn’t quite the case! From there, my love for cycling really took off. I do still ride motorbikes from time to time.
Tell us about your first bike race.
My first race was at the Like2Bike series. I raced in my tekkies with an SPCA helmet and had the time of my life. I won that 10km race and that’s where the passion began.
Although you still have two years left in the U23 category, 2025 has been a strong season for you. Why do you think that is?
I feel like 2025 has been a breakthrough season because I really committed myself both on and off the bike. After my first U23 season, I came into the year motivated and just put my head down with training and racing and embracing everything that came my way. Spending the year in the U.S. was a big part of it too (having my Austrian roommate and training partner, Manolo was also great). I also got some good international racing done there which prepared me for the season, racing the US Cups gave me a good boost in both development and confidence and getting me used to the world of international racing.
You work with one of the best coaches in the business, Barry Austin. What key elements has he added to your program or approach that you think have made the biggest difference?
Barry’s made a big difference, not just in how I ride, but in how I think about riding. He’s got me curious (as he’d say) about different ways to train and race, he’s helped me believe in myself and that I have what it takes, and he’s given me structure that’s kept me consistent and pushed me to be better every day.
Which race result do you cherish the most?
Right now, its definitely my SA Champs title. I’d been close a few times before, so this year I was really determined to make it happen and to get those stripes on my chest. It was a big goal for me and ticking it off mean’t a lot. Plus getting to wear the SA Champs jersey on the world stage is always/truly an honour and something really special.
How does international racing compare to South Africa’s biggest competitions?
It’s a whole different level/game. The racing is deeper, faster and just more intense all around, plus there are a lot more people who are all racing for the win. Even the atmosphere is different with the amount of spectators. But that’s what makes it exciting – you learn a lot every time you line up.
What advice would you give to young South African riders who want to pursue this kind of racing success.
Honestly have fun and enjoy yourself. You wont get anywhere if you don’t enjoy what you do! Trust the process, everything happens in time.
What does the rest of your 2025 season look like and what are your plans for 2026?
Things are a bit calmer now after a busy year. I’ve got the 94.7 road race coming up, potentially Wines2Whales and then some good training before some rest. For 2026, the big plan is a full World Cup season. Team plans aren’t set yet.
Which pro rider do you respect the most, and why?
I’ve got a lot of respect for Nino Schurter. The way he’s managed to stay at the top of the sport for so many years is incredible. It’s not just about his talent. His consistency, work ethic, and professionalism are on another level. He’s set the standard for what it means to be a complete mountain biker.
Anywhere in the world – what would your dream destination for a bike ride be and why?
Whistler! I’ve always watched videos about how sick Whistler is with some of the best trails in the world. The variety from techy trails to huge flow lines, it looks unreal and the atmosphere is all about bikes. Its one of those places I feel every rider wants to experience at least once.
Favourite recovery meal?
Pizza, for sure.
Favourite cheat meal?
A good burger never fails.
Outside of cycling, what hobbies do you have?
I enjoy cooking and also like going for a run every now and then.
Who would you like to thank?
All my sponsors and supporters for helping me to chase this dream, it wouldn’t be possible without them. Trek SA, Aucor Property SA, Ciovita and Garmin. And most of all, my family for always supporting me.
| IMAGES: Piper Albrecht |