Bahrain Victorious to the Gravel of Strade Bianche
# Bahrain Victorious Sets Sights on Strade Bianche Glory
Following an impressive victory at the Trofeo Laigueglia, Bahrain Victorious is gearing up for another challenge as they compete in the iconic Strade Bianche on March 7. This renowned race not only marks the beginning of the Italian UCI WorldTour Classics season but also promises changes to its route while retaining the unique allure that has captivated cyclists and fans alike.
The 2026 edition of Strade Bianche will span 203 kilometres and feature over 4,100 metres of elevation gain, incorporating 14 gravel sectors that total 64.1 km. This marks a reduction from the previous year, which boasted 16 sectors and 81 km of gravel. Nonetheless, the race will preserve its essence with a rolling profile across the picturesque Crete Senesi, characterized by short steep ramps, technical gravel segments, and relentless terrain that challenges riders’ resilience.
Starting in Siena, competitors will quickly tackle the first gravel sections before passing through charming towns such as Radi and Buonconvento. The course includes a paved climb to Montalcino and two long gravel sectors, one of which includes the demanding San Martino in Grania. The race’s turning point typically arrives on Monte Sante Marie (11.5 km), acknowledged as the longest and most challenging sector. The thrilling finale comprises the steep Colle Pinzuto and Le Tolfe sectors, culminating in an uphill finish at Siena’s iconic Piazza del Campo.
Bahrain Victorious heads into this prestigious event with two formidable leaders: Matej Mohorič and Pello Bilbao. Both have previously achieved top-five finishes, with Mohorič finishing sixth in 2023 and Bilbao securing seventh in 2023 and fifth in 2022. This will mark Mohorič’s sixth appearance at Strade Bianche, while Bilbao continues to showcase a strong history within the race.
Attila Valter, a former mountain biker who has finished fourth in 2022 and fifth in 2023, is also part of the line-up. Valter dreams of supporting his leaders, particularly on the pivotal Monte Sante Marie sector. Additional support will come from Afonso Eulálio, who is expected to assist Mohorič and Bilbao in navigating crucial race segments.
Completing the Bahrain Victorious roster are Edoardo Zambanini, Fran Miholjević, and Pau Miquel, who will focus on protecting their leaders during the early and middle parts of the race, while facilitating communication between the cyclists and team staff.
Sports Director Enrico Gasparotto reflected on the team’s approach, stating: “History is always a source of important insights for the present or the near future, and history tells us that Bahrain Victorious riders have always had a fairly good relationship with this race. Matej and Pello have fought for important results here in the past. So we arrive motivated and ready to maintain this trend again this year. We hope to use the momentum from the last races, where we achieved some great results, to aim for something important here.”
With a high-caliber start list that includes star riders like Pogačar, who aims to kickstart his season with a strong performance, Bahrain Victorious is poised to leave their mark on this coveted race. As they prepare to tackle the challenges of Strade Bianche, their history and current form fuel their ambition for success.
