TREVISO
From the Egyptian archistar to the former Olympian, from illustrious family managers to Sky journalists. The beauty of every granfondo is to match the backbones to the surnames, to verify how the most experienced riders share the road with the VIPs. Thus, from the starters list, Hani Rachid, an architect originally from Cairo but transplanted to New York, does not escape. Its name is linked to the futuristic current “Asymptote Architecture”, as well as to super-luxury hotels and skyscrapers in Abu Dhabi, Malaysia and South Korea. But there will also be managers: Alessandro Benetton, a well-known lover of two wheels, is expected. The Giro d’Italia (with the dreams of a “pink hug” in 2022) will be represented by the former pro ‘Stefano Allocchio, right arm of Mauro Vegni, director of the pink race. The former Olympic champions Jury Chechi (gymnastics), Antonio Rossi (canoeing) and Cristian Zorzi (cross-country skiing) are now regulars: as they approach the Tokyo Games, they will bring a bit of atmosphere to the five circles. The Ineos team, to which Pinarello will supply the bikes until 2024, will “field” the pro ‘Asolo Leonardo Basso and the sporting director Matteo Tosatto at the start. The Sky network will be able to count on Giovanni Bruno, Stefano Santini and Davide Camicioli. Ah, and given the emotions of football, there is a certain Francesco Toldo …. –
M.T.