Sofia de Finsterwald (MEX)

Sofia Arreola, a cycling star from Monterrey, Mexico, has built an impressive career on both the road and track. Before discovering her passion for cycling, she excelled in a variety of sports, including speed skating, sports shooting, and swimming. She took up cycling at the age of 14 and, within just a year, claimed her first national championship title—a sign of the success to come.Her breakthrough came after securing six gold medals at the Pan American Championships and a 4th-place finish at the Junior World Championships in Moscow. This outstanding performance earned her an invitation to train at the prestigious World Cycling Center in Switzerland for the 2009-2010 track season.

Transitioning to the elite ranks was challenging, but Sofia embraced the experience, competing in World Cups and securing a silver medal at the Senior Pan American Championships. It was then that she made the decision to focus on track cycling—a choice that led to historic success. She went on to win two silver medals at the World Championships, becoming the first Mexican rider to achieve multiple podium finishes at a single World Championship event. Now a full-time cyclist and student, Sofia continues to push boundaries in the sport while balancing her academic pursuits. She splits her time between Colorado Springs and Tucson, training at the highest level as she continues her journey in professional cycling with her eyes firmly set on the Los Angeles Olympics.

What inspired you to become a bike racer?

I tried lots of sports but felt in love with cycling because of the speed, the adrenaline, and the freedom

Who is an inspiration to you in your life, both on and off the bike?

My parents because they are the most hard-working people I know

The best thing about being a bike racer is?

Getting to travel to different parts of the world and meeting new people!

What is your biggest accomplishment on the bike?

Two medals at the same world championships.

Favorite place you’ve raced your bike and why?

PanAm Games in Mexico because it was so special to have the entire velodrome was cheering for me!

Favorite cross training or off-season activity?

Hiking.

Best tip for a new bike racer?

Have fun and don’t be afraid to ask questions!

What are one oR two things that you do daily that are the key to your success?

Being disciplined making sure I do everything I can to be the best version of myself

If you could spend 10 days anywhere, where would it be?

Anywhere with my family!

Favorite things to do off the bike:

- Hiking
- Cooking
- Baking
- Spend time with friends/family/husband
- Camping

Top 5 warmup/pre-race songs:

1. Good Spirits - Full Blown
2. Success - Patrice Roberts
3. Unstoppable - Sia
4. Seven Nation Army - White Stripes
5. Wake Me Up - Avicii

Favorite things to eat:

1. Tacos, burritos, carne asada (pretty much anything Mexican)
2. Sushi
3. Thai food
‍4.

Tell us something about yourself that people may not know

I have two nephews!