After their impressive victory last year with Slovenian rider Gal Glivar, the UAE Team Emirates Gen Z aims to become the first squad in a decade to win the prestigious under-23 race in consecutive years. Schwarzabcher, Marivoet, and Fabries together with Italians Giaimi and Sambinello will lead the charge in Villa di Cordignano on April 21st

In today’s cycling, when UAE is in the game it’s likely they are a serious contender. This year’s Giro del Belvedere, to be held on April 21 in Villa di Cordignano (Treviso), promises to be another thrilling showcase of cycling rising stars, and the squad from the United Arab Emirates is ready to play its part.

Following the great win in 2024, thanks to a solid teamwork by Pablo Torres who set the perfect finale for Gal Glivar’s triumph, UAE Gen Z will line up again at the Easter Monday Classic. Guided by former professional cyclist Jan Polanc, the UAE is crafting the next generation of cycling stars, dreaming of joining their idols in what is now the best team in the world, following the footsteps of superstars like Tadej Pogačar and Juan Ayuso. Fun fact: both of them previously competed at Belvedere, with the latter solo winner in 2021.

Leading the charge in 2025 is a diverse and talented roster of international young cyclists, starting from Italians Elia Sambinello and Luca Giaimi. The first one is highly expected among U23 after solid results in the Junior category, and has already joined the pro peloton at Trofeo Laigueglia. On the other hand, Giaimi is following Filippo Ganna’s footsteps, and after a first approach to Belvedere in 2024, is ready to give it another shot.

Slovak gem Matthias Schwarzbacher stands out as a key rider to watch. Fresh off an exceptional 2024 season, he claimed the U23 time trial National Championships and has already secured impressive results in 2025, including a victory at the UMAG Classic and top-15 finishes among professionals.

Belgian rider Duarte Marivoet brings additional international flair, having already tasted success this year with wins in Tour du Rwanda, and taking the Best Young Rider jersey at the Tour of Sharjah. French talent Ugo Fabries rounds out the international contingent, adding depth to the team’s lineup.

The Giro del Belvedere challenging course will test these young riders’ legs and spirit. With a demanding 168 km route that includes the iconic Conche and Montaner climbs, as well as two additional climbs at Piai della Vigna (with sections reaching up to 15% gradient), only athletes with an exceptional class and maturity will have a chance to raise their arms on the finish line. In the list of participants, Trentino Cycling Team U23 has replaced Zappi Racing Team.