Written by PRS at 14:54 19/8-2026
PRS today marks the retirement of Julo Lietava, bringing the curtain down on one of the most enduring climbing careers in modern cycling. After 396 professional races, representing Lokomotíva Zvolen, Albiceleste and PRS, the 38-year-old Slovak leaves the sport as a respected mountain specialist whose career spanned multiple generations of riders.
Lietava built his reputation on his exceptional climbing ability, retiring with an outstanding 91 Climbing rating, backed by strong descending skills (75) and solid endurance attributes. Throughout his career he was a rider capable of thriving whenever the road pointed uphill.
Career at a Glance
• Nationality: Slovakia
• Professional Races: 396
• Teams: Lokomotíva Zvolen, Albiceleste, PRS
• National Team Appearances: 39
Top Three Career Achievements
1. World Tour Winner for Slovakia Lietava reached the pinnacle of his career with victories in prestigious international events, including Classica Verona (WT) and Talca - Laguna del Maule (WT) while representing Slovakia. These victories established him as one of the nation's most successful climbers on the world stage.
2. Consistent Tour Performer Across Three Teams His career was defined by remarkable consistency in stage races. Among his finest overall tour performances were:
• 4th and 6th overall in Vuelta a Valparaiso with PRS
• 5th overall in Volta ao Porto with Albiceleste
• 8th overall in the Two Pass Tour
• 8th overall in the Norway Tour with Albiceleste
These results highlighted a rider who repeatedly delivered across diverse terrain and race formats.
3. Youth Classification Success Long before his World Tour successes, Lietava demonstrated exceptional promise with Lokomotíva Zvolen. His early years included multiple notable stage race performances and Young Rider Classification victories, notably in:
• Minute Men Tour
• Norway Tour
• Monte Rosa Tour
These achievements showcased the climbing talent that would define the rest of his career.
Team History
Lietava's career can be viewed in three chapters:
Lokomotíva Zvolen
The Slovak squad where he developed from a promising youngster into one of the game's premier climbers. A host of strong stage race results, podiums and youth classifications established his reputation early.
Albiceleste
His most successful period. During his time with the team he collected numerous victories, podiums and World Tour performances, including wins at Gateway to Sagarmatha, Tour of the Rila Lakes, Gebze-Körfez, and several standout World Tour results for Slovakia.
PRS
The final chapter of his career. Joining in 2025, Lietava brought experience, leadership and climbing expertise, completing 129 races for the team before announcing his retirement.
Closing Statement
While Julo Lietava may never have been the most talked-about rider of his generation, few matched his longevity, consistency and determination in the mountains. From winning youth classifications as a rising talent at Lokomotíva Zvolen, to World Tour victories in Slovak colours, and finally mentoring younger riders at PRS, his legacy is that of a consummate professional and one of Slovakia's finest climbing specialists.
Thank you for the memories, Julo, and enjoy a well-earned retirement.
Conrad Draughon – PR Manager
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Comments
Nice write up, great rider!
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