The new video documentary “Professional Cyclists in Two Worlds” by NZZ Format offers a fantastic glimpse into extraordinary achievements and pure passion on two wheels. It sheds light on two fascinating yet completely contrasting lifestyles in modern elite sports.

On one hand is track cycling specialist Aline Seitz. The 29-year-old operates within a highly structured federation system and is preparing for the 2026 European Championships in Konya, Turkey, with uncompromising training. But the documentary also reveals the unvarnished reality behind the glamour: Despite competing in the Olympics and putting in an enormous amount of effort, she receives no salary from the federation; financial stability remains a constant struggle.

Her former neighbor, Robin Gemperle, has taken a completely different path. The Swiss athlete has established himself as one of the world’s best ultracyclists and seeks the greatest possible independence through extreme physical challenges. The documentary follows him throughout the 2026 Transcontinental Race: a grueling, 5,000-kilometer journey from Norway to Greece. Without a team and largely on his own, he operates as a one-man enterprise, deciding everything himself—from where to sleep to route planning.

The NZZ report takes an unflinching look behind the scenes of these two sporting extremes. Highly recommended viewing for anyone interested in the unbridled drive of professional athletes and the many facets of cycling.