Welcome back, Italy. After three years dominated by foreigner riders, Samuele Battistella celebrated at Giro del Belvedere, whose resounding success and massive prestige have been confirmed by the huge crowd surrounding the race. On the day’s podium, behind Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka‘s Italian two other Italian riders, Giovanni Aleotti (Team Cycling Friuli) and the winner’s teammate Matteo Sobrero.

“It’s not easy to win here, I couldn’t hope for anything better. This is a prestigious race, one of the most important in U23 season, and I really wanted to do well. I congratulate Aleotti for his excellent race”, said the winner.

Nicolas Prodhomme (AG2R) and Daniel Smarzaro (General Store) crossed the finish line behind the day’s top-3, whilst Rubio Reyes (Aran Cucine Vejus), Debons (Iam Excelsior), Piccot (Biesse Carrera), Casarotto (General Store) and Bais (Cycling Team Friuli) rounded out the top-10 of the U23 Italian classic.

Battistella and Aleotti inflamed the race on the final circuit including the Montaner climb and the Via delle Longhe hill. The Italian riders faced together the last kilometers until the final straight and the impressive sprint of Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka‘s 20-year-old.

Italian Cycling Federation President Renato Di Rocco attended the event: “I really wished to be here. My congratulations to the organizers whose passion in setting up a big race isa benchmark for U23 cycling. Whoever wins here will likely become a top rider”.