They will become famous. In the centenary of the Giro d’Italia, the Under 23 is back, with promising talents who dream they will make a leap forward and reach the professionals. Again, the Main sponsor will be Enel, which will follow the Giro caravan and add entertainment to each segment.
The kickoff is on June 5 in Imola (Emilia-Romagna), with arrival at the former Formula 1 circuit. The last segment seven days later in Abruzzo, with a final rush at 2135 metre-high Campo Imperatore, in memory of Marco Pantani who achieved here the last victory of his career. In all, nearly a thousand kilometres, along which 17 teams will compete, 11 of them foreign. Therefore, an international showcase, which is back after a four-year absence to celebrate its 40th edition.
"We missed this race, it will help our young people to grow", said Davide Cassani, coach of road professionals and true mentor of the project presented to the CONI in the presence of the governors of the three regions that will be crossed by the race, Emilia-Romagna, Marche and Abruzzo.
"Professional cycling is important - added Carlo Tamburi, Director of the Group’s country Italy - but Enel feels a sense of social responsibility towards the country as a whole, and wishes to help young people get closer to professionalism: in the past the amateur Giro d'Italia has been a training ground for great champions. In addition, this tour crosses regions where today our presence is particularly important".
CONI president Giovanni Malagò also attended the presentation of the Giro Under23. "Cycling is a guarantee for Italian sport. Almost every week I receive good news from this world, you always provide reasons to be pleased. This tour has the most auspicious start here in the home of sports, and will be an important showcase for young racers."