Even though it's not yet March, the competitive season is kicking off with one of the most captivating events on the cycling calendar. From February 26th to March 2nd, the Wilier-Vittoria MTB Factory marathon team will put their skills to the test at the Andalucia Bike Race.
The race will consist of 6 stages, starting from Bedmar and then moving through Jaén, Adamuz, Villafranca de Córdoba, ultimately concluding in the picturesque and historically rich city of Córdoba. The route will take the riders through olive groves, mountains, and the typical trails of this region in Spain. Beyond the excitement of the race, this event holds special significance for Wilier-Vittoria, as they enter as the defending champions.
Fabian Rabensteiner, who claimed the top spot on the podium last year and also won the 2020 edition, will be partnering with Samuele Porro. Porro finished 2nd in 2017 but is eager for redemption after having to withdraw from the race last year. Additionally, the Austrian rider Daniel Geismayr will team up with Jakob Dorigoni.
Not limited to just the marathon, the XCC team will also return to the spotlight in a few days. Specifically, Simone Avondetto and Elian Pacagnella will be taking on the Salamina Epic Race on the beautiful Greek island on February 28-29. Avondetto is coming off a commendable 5th place finish in the XCO in Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, the young Paccagnella, born in 2005, is making his debut among the elites while proudly wearing the Wilier-Vittoria jersey.
"It's fantastic to make my debut! I've been dreaming of wearing the jersey of a significant team for years, and the moment has finally arrived," says Paccagnella, the vice-world champion in Glasgow 2023 among juniors. "Physically, I feel well-prepared, and I'm very eager to see how I will perform in these initial outings. I haven't set specific goals for this year, partly because I need to balance it with finishing school, and I'm determined to complete it successfully. However, for now, my focus is on getting familiar with the new category and understanding my potential."
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