Some races do not lie! Some races can pave the way to a bright future. And the Giro Next Gen is undoubtedly one of them. First held in 1970, this competition has changed its name several times over the years, from Baby Giro to Girobio, from Giro d’Italia Giovani to Giro U23: this year, with the new direction of RCS Sport, the race aims to expand even further under the name Giro Next Gen.

However, one feature has been a constant in the 45 editions that have taken place so far: the quality of the starters. In fact, this competition has showcased countless talented young riders who then moved on to successful careers as pros. It was clear from the outset: those who managed to shine in this race were destined to have a brilliant future. After all, this has always been a small-scale Giro d’Italia and, as we all know, such roads never lie.

The second edition was won by Francesco Moser, the third by Gianbattista Baronchelli and then on and on with names that the cycling world would never forget. Other riders who have added their name to this prestigious roll of honour are Pyotr Ugrjumov, Wladimir Belli, Francesco Casagrande, Gilberto Simoni and the rising star Marco Pantani, who came 3rd in 1990, 2nd in 1991 and 1st in 1992. The story hasn’t changed in recent years, as the race has increasingly become a primary objective in the season of the world’s strongest U23 athletes.