Andrea Abodi, Minister for Sport and Youth: “The Giro Next Gen is a prestigious testing ground for young cyclists who aspire to become key players in the international cycling scene and who show the qualities needed to make that leap. It’s no coincidence that among the many champions we’re following at this year’s Giro d’Italia is Juan Ayuso, who won the Italian stage race for young riders in 2021. Whether it’s the Giro d’Italia, the U23 Giro, or the Giro Women, these are all part of a remarkable national heritage, and extraordinary tools for promoting cycling, our lands, and the values of sustainability, of which the bicycle is a symbol. Equally important, however, are our young athletes—examples of commitment, sacrifice, passion, and dedication—who embody a movement that fuels grassroots sport. It’s on this basis that the Government continues to support a race that combines competitive values with the opportunity to showcase talent and promote this beautiful sport, engaging even the youngest fans cheering from the roadside alongside thousands of cycling enthusiasts of all ages”.
Paolo Bellino, CEO of RCS Sports & Events: “The Giro Next Gen is a strategic asset for the development of youth cycling. It’s a growth platform for U23 talents, as well as a vehicle for promoting the regions we cross and the brands we partner with. The collaboration with the Italian Cycling Federation and the Ministry for Sport and Youth reflects our shared commitment to creating high-level events with an eye to the future”.
Mauro Vegni, Director of the Giro d’Italia: “The route has been designed to highlight the strengths of well-rounded riders. We’ve created a balanced course, with an opening time trial, two stages for sprinters, and challenging summit finishes at Passo Maniva and Prato Nevoso. Every stage presents an opportunity to shine—this is the perfect terrain to discover tomorrow’s champions. Among the expected contenders is 2024 winner Jarno Widar, but the race is wide open, with major prospects like Norwegian talent Jørgen Nordhagen and junior world champion Lorenzo Finn. We’re confident that these young riders will follow in the footsteps of stars like Juan Ayuso and Tom Pidcock, both racing now at the Giro d’Italia”.
Cordiano Dagnoni, President of the Italian Cycling Federation: “The Giro Next Gen is one of the Federation’s most treasured events. Since taking responsibility for the Italian cycling movement, our goal has been to elevate this race. Its roll of honor is filled with riders who went on to achieve great success as professionals, and the most recent winners are now starring in the Giro d’Italia. This year’s lineup is again exceptional, with 35 teams and many development squads, ensuring a top-level competition. We’ve welcomed RCS’s involvement in youth cycling and hope this partnership bears fruit for the whole sport. Now we face another important challenge: seeing an Italian winner emerge, building on the recent success of our junior riders. Our efforts and resources must align to achieve this shared goal. Only then can we truly say we’ve helped the Giro Next Gen grow—and with it, the entire Italian cycling movement”.
Andrea Orlandi, Mayor of Rho: “The Giro Next Gen is one of the most important youth cycling races in the world, and all the major teams are here. Being chosen as the Grande Partenza city is a source of great pride. Rho has a strong cycling tradition, with champions in multiple disciplines. We’ve always supported youth-oriented sports, and this is a special moment for all fans. The city is working hard to ensure the race passes through smoothly and successfully”.
Francesco Conci, CEO and General Manager of Fiera Milano: “The Giro Next Gen represents an extraordinary opportunity for Fiera Milano to strengthen our bond with the world of sports and entertainment, which today encompasses events, concerts, and new experiences for the public. The stage start from Fiera Milano on June 16 is a symbol of a broader vision that will see us play a leading role in the coming months, including at the Olympic and Paralympic Games Milano Cortina 2026. Sport reflects who we are: team spirit, passion, resilience, and a sense of belonging are values that deeply unite us”.
Thomas Pidcock, 2020 Giro Next Gen winner: “This race is really important for young riders because it gives them a chance to be seen and appreciated. I want to send my best wishes to the young talents taking part—I’ve got great memories of my experience, and I hope they get to create moments just as special”.
Juan Ayuso, 2021 Giro Next Gen winner: “The Giro Next Gen was a race that helped me grow and realize I could become a pro. It wasn’t an end point, but a starting one. I have beautiful memories—for example, wearing the Maglia Rosa from the early stages was an amazing feeling. It would be a dream to one day wear that same jersey at the Giro d’Italia”.
