Paolo Bellino: “The Classics that we organize, and which have media exposure throughout the year, are not only major sporting events but they have a widespread presence on the national territory that few events can boast. 120 million viewers watch these events on TV, with to the 200 countries tuned across five continents. This exposure to the various broadcasters generates a value of over 40 million Euros for the partners involved. These races – which range from Sicily to all of central Italy (Tuscany, Lazio, Umbria, Marche and Abruzzo) up to Lombardy, Liguria and Piedmont – also have a very strong direct impact on the territories they cross. We are certain that having such a prestigious and widespread partner throughout Italy as Crédit Agricole will help us continue to grow further and bring about important results for both our companies.”
Marco Briata: “Cycling is among the sports that most represent and promote the transition to an increasingly sustainable society. Thanks to this partnership, our Group will be able to convey its values related to the transition to an increasingly environmentally and socially friendly economy, by deploying numerous initiatives to involve customers with dedicated activities and products.”
Giuseppe Saronni: “I have great memories of all these classics, as I was lucky enough to win them all in my career, with the exception of the Strade Bianche, which was not yet born. Of these, my favorite victory remains the Milano-San Remo 1983, achieved while wearing the World Champion’s jersey.”
Gianni Bugno: “All these Italian classics are important pieces of cycling history. I remember with joy the 1990 Milano-San Remo, a historic edition that I won with what is still the highest average. It was not the most suitable race for me, so winning it was a special emotion.”
Filippo Pozzato: “In my career I was able to win an edition of Tirreno-Adriatico and, a few years later, one Milano-Sanremo. Over the years I have tried again and again, they have always been prestigious goals that many riders aim for. At the end of my career, I also had the opportunity to race the Strade Bianche, a young but already highly coveted race that deserves to become a Classica Monument because of its beauty.”
Damiano Cunego: “After my first victory in 2004, Il Lombardia became one of the goals I put in my sights every season. The route was perfect for my characteristics and, coming out of the Vuelta and the World Championships with a good condition, I was often able to fight for the win. I am very proud to have won it three times.”
Ivan Basso: “In my career I have never managed to win any of these beautiful races. I came close to winning Il Lombardia, finishing third in the 2004 edition, won by Damiano himself. My characteristics were more for stage races, but I would have liked to bring one of these races home.”
