Scheduled for Wednesday, March 5, the Trofeo Laigueglia will once again open the Italian cycling calendar. VF Group Bardiani-CSF Faizanè has selected the seven riders who will take part in the Ligurian race: lining up at the start is Alessandro Pinarello, a key protagonist in last year’s edition won by Lenny Martinez. Joining him are Alex Tolio, Luca Covili, and Martin Marcellusi, the latter in excellent form after the recent Gran Camiño, where he secured a podium finish in the second stage.

Also competing is Manuele Tarozzi, a breakaway specialist and contender for the most kilometers spent in escapes. He was also a standout at the recent UAE Tour, covering hundreds of kilometers in solo moves. Completing the lineup are young talents Luca Paletti and Matteo Scalco.

Sports director Roberto Reverberi stated: “The first race in Italy is important for us and our team. As always, we will have both young talents and more experienced riders at the start. We will try to defend our reputation, just like last year. It’s a prestigious race that we value highly, and we have great confidence in our young riders, who will have the freedom to showcase themselves in these competitions.”

On the same day, the Umag Trophy, a classic Croatian race, will also take place, providing many of our young riders with an opportunity to shine. Among them is Santiago Ferraro, a professional debutant from Cerveteri, who will be making his seasonal debut in this race. The same goes for Santiago Cruz, Martin Herreño, and Treviso-born Filippo Cettolin.

Also at the start is sprinter Mattia Pinazzi, who has a strong connection with Croatia—last year, he claimed a stage victory at the Istria Spring Trophy. The lineup will be completed by young neo-pro Mattia Stenico.

Live coverage of the Trofeo Laigueglia will be broadcast on Eurosport 2 and Rai Sport starting at 14:15.