For the next 12 months, the Wilier-Vittoria MTB Factory Team's XCO group will proudly sport the Tricolore jersey of the Italian Champion. Elian Paccagnella clinched the U23 national title on the Pergine Valsugana course, expertly managing the race from start to finish.
This victory marks Paccagnella's first in the Wilier-Vittoria colors and comes at a crucial time to build momentum for the final part of the season. Notably, the young South Tyrolean is in his first year in the U23 category, highlighting his status as one of Italy's most promising MTB talents.
"The first part of the season was a bit up and down, so I was really determined to do well in this Italian Championships," Paccagnella said. "It was a tough battle with Siffredi. I tried everything to break away, attacked multiple times, but we were always together. Towards the end, I even had a hint of cramps, but I managed to push through and secure this great win. I can't wait to wear the special jersey for the next 12 months."
In the elite races, there were two second-place finishes. In the morning, Giada Specia had to settle for silver, finishing 20 seconds behind Martina Berta. In the afternoon, European champion Simone Avondetto, after an aggressive race, was overtaken in the final stretch by Luca Braidot. Avondetto and Braidot are set to form a compelling duo for the Italian National Team at the Paris Olympics.
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