“La Conti” very active in Lombardia
# “La Conti” Shines in Lombardia With Strong Performance Despite Missing Title
In the 2025 edition of Il Lombardia U23, “La Conti” Groupama-FDJ showcased their competitive spirit, despite no longer holding the title. The French team, led by coach Jérôme Gannat, tackled the challenging course around Oggiono with determination, producing an offensive race that kept them in the spotlight. Reflecting on last year’s success with Brieuc Rolland, the team demonstrated resolve even without their crown.
On a familiar route that Rolland dominated in the previous year, “La Conti” set out to prove their mettle. Gannat detailed the day’s progression: “We first did a twenty-two-kilometre circuit four times, then we skirted Lake Lecco to reach the Madonna del Ghisallo.” Situated sixty kilometres from the finish line, this iconic climb was followed by two more ascents in the final twenty-five kilometres, adding to the intensity of the race.
The strategic planning paid off as Gannat noted, “A breakaway went after sixty kilometres. There were thirteen riders in front, and we were very well represented with three guys: Titouan Fontaine, Reef Roberts and Eliott Boulet.” This representation proved crucial, allowing them to compete aggressively. Gannat remarked that, although their top climbers Rémi and Baptiste were absent, the team’s remaining members were ready to seize the moment.
As the race unfolded, the breakaway held a lead of three minutes approaching the Madonna del Ghisallo climb, a critical moment in the competition. “On the climb… we lost Reef, then Eliott,” Gannat recounted. “Titouan held on a bit longer, but he reached the summit 30 seconds behind the first group.” Despite the setback, the lead group of eight remained competitive, while Baptiste Grégoire and Rémi fought to reduce the distance from the peloton.
As the race intensified on the ascents of Ravellino and Marconaga di Ello, the leading pack narrowed down to four riders vying for victory. Ultimately, Callum Thornley took the win, but Grégoire secured a commendable ninth place, finishing strong despite the circumstances. “It was a good day,” Gannat concluded, reflecting on the team’s performance. “For some time now, the team’s attitude has been really good. We’re present in the breakaways… we can’t ask for too much either when we have three out of thirteen in the breakaway.”
With the season drawing to a close, “La Conti” will look to finish on a high note at the upcoming Paris-Tours Under-23, ready to channel their momentum from a spirited effort in Lombardia.
