Italy and the Wilier Vittoria MTB Factory Team are celebrating in style: Simone Avondetto has been crowned European champion. Hailing from Moncalieri, Avondetto put on a spectacular performance on Romania's challenging Cheile Grădiștei circuit, fearlessly tackling the tough terrain despite the relentless rain and resulting mud, and leaving his competitors in the dust..
Avondetto engaged in a thrilling battle with Denmark's Simon Andreassen, who initially took the lead but had to bow out due to a puncture. Avondetto seized the opportunity, increasing his pace and ultimately crossing the finish line with a commanding lead of over a minute.
The 24-year-old from Piedmont now gets to wear the prestigious continental champion jersey for a year, a title he'd already claimed in 2022 in the U23 category when he won the XCO event in Portugal. This victory also sets him up nicely for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
"The weather really threw us a curveball today; it's been a while since we faced such extreme conditions," Avondetto commented. "Andreassen started strong, and after his mishap, I found myself with a lead. I decided to keep pushing, despite the challenges. Thankfully, it paid off, and I'm absolutely thrilled. Can't wait to wear this jersey again."
Avondetto's success in the XCO elite category wasn't the only highlight from Romania. On Friday, he and his teammates clinched victory in the Team Relay event, beating out France and Switzerland. Also noteworthy for Wilier-Vittoria are the 6th place of Giada Specia in the XCC, the 9th of Elian Paccagnella in the XCO U23, and the 10th of Sofie Heby Pedersen in the XCO U23.
"I'm ecstatic for Simone; bringing home such a significant victory for Wilier-Vittoria is fantastic," said Marco Trentin, Wilier-Vittoria's general manager. "We expected a strong showing after our performances in the World Cup in Brazil, and this win has certainly boosted morale. Now, it's time to focus on the upcoming World Cup races."
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