Over thirty cyclists were recently removed from the under-23 Giro d’Italia for violating race regulations. Video footage revealed numerous riders holding onto team vehicles and motorcycles while ascending the Passo dello Stelvio, a notoriously challenging mountain stage.
The initial review of fan-recorded videos resulted in the disqualification of 24 cyclists. A subsequent review added seven more to the list, bringing the total to 31. The fourth stage, known as the "queen stage" in the rebranded Giro Next Gen, culminated in the grueling Stelvio climb. Spectators captured the infractions on video as riders, seemingly unaware of being filmed, held onto support vehicles, some even engaging in casual conversation while doing so.
Among those disqualified, 24 were Italian and seven were from other countries, notably including Belgian cyclist Tijl De Decker, the winner of this year’s Paris-Roubaix Under 23 race. Four team staff members and their vehicles were also penalized. Italian Cycling Federation President Cordiano Dagnoni expressed his disappointment, calling the behavior "offensive" and highlighting the negative impact on the sport's image.
Dagnoni criticized the sporting directors, emphasizing their responsibility in educating young riders about the rules. He also expressed his regret at having advocated for Italian team participation, given their conduct. Further sanctions from the federation or the International Cycling Union are possible. Several Italian teams, including ASD GC Sissio, Ciclistica Rostese, and Technipes, saw multiple riders disqualified.
