Mariana Pajon, the revered "Queen of BMX" and a multiple Olympic medalist, has captivated the world not only with her unparalleled athletic prowess but also with her inspiring and enduring love story. Her romantic journey is deeply intertwined with her sport, culminating in a powerful partnership with fellow BMX rider Vincent Pelluard. Their relationship, forged on the race tracks and strengthened by mutual respect and shared dreams, stands as a testament to commitment and support in the demanding world of elite athletics.
The initial spark between Mariana Pajon and Vincent Pelluard ignited within the competitive BMX circuit. They first crossed paths around the time of the 2012 London Olympics, where Pajon secured her first gold medal. While they had known each other as competitors, their connection deepened the following year. According to reports, their romance officially began in the summer of 2013 during a BMX World Championship event in New Zealand, where they shared their first kiss.
Their relationship blossomed as they navigated the rigorous demands of professional cycling. Vincent Pelluard, a French BMX cyclist born on May 31, 1990, and Pajon, born on October 10, 1991, found common ground in their shared passion and understanding of the sacrifices required for their sport. Their bond grew stronger through years of training, travel, and competition, with each supporting the other's ambitions and celebrating their victories.
After several years of dating, Vincent Pelluard proposed to Mariana Pajon in October 2016 in Paris, making the occasion even more special as it coincided with her birthday. Pajon joyfully announced the engagement on social media, sharing her excitement with fans. She expressed her profound happiness, stating, "When you are going through incredible moments in your life and you wonder if there is something that can surpass it, then this comes to make my life complete and perfect. Like a fairy tale. What a birthday gift @vincentpelluard. Future Mrs. 'de Pelluard'."
The couple officially tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony on December 16, 2017, in Medellín, Colombia, Pajon's hometown. The wedding was a joyous occasion, surrounded by family and friends, marking a significant milestone in their journey together. Both Mariana and Vincent shared intimate moments from their special day on social media, with Pajon affectionately writing to her new husband, "You are my today and all my tomorrows @vincentpelluard. A 'yes' that means forever. I love you."
Their marriage further solidified their unique partnership, extending beyond personal life into their professional careers. Vincent Pelluard notably acquired Colombian nationality, allowing him to represent Colombia in international BMX competitions, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympics alongside his wife. This decision underscored his deep commitment not only to Mariana but also to her country and their shared sporting heritage.
In 2022, Vincent Pelluard announced his retirement from professional BMX racing. However, his departure from competitive riding did not mean an end to his involvement in the sport or his support for Mariana. Instead, he transitioned into a new role, becoming Mariana's dedicated coach and technical support. This strategic move allowed him to continue contributing to her career, offering invaluable guidance and encouragement from the sidelines, a testament to their unwavering teamwork.
Their enduring love story reached another significant milestone in June 2024, when Mariana Pajon and Vincent Pelluard joyfully announced that they are expecting their first child. Pajon shared the heartwarming news through an emotional video on her social media platforms, featuring an ultrasound and a baby's image. She captioned the announcement, "One more heartbeat in this family. We had a secret kept, and today we are happy to finally share this news. A small bike break, after dreaming of it so much. Baby Pelluard Pajón on the way."
Mariana Pajon and Vincent Pelluard exemplify a relationship built on shared passions, mutual respect, and unwavering support. From their early days as competitors to their current roles as husband and wife and soon-to-be parents, their journey has been a public and inspiring display of a partnership that thrives both on and off the BMX track. Their story continues to unfold, promising new adventures and milestones as they pedal through life together.