Tiberi leads Bahrain Victorious into Tirreno–Adriatico challenge

TDT| Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The 61st edition of Tirreno– Adriatico gets underway today in Lido di Camaiore, beginning a seven-stage journey across Italy that concludes on the Adriatic coast in San Benedetto del Tronto. As one of the key early-season stage races on the WorldTour calendar, the week-long contest will once again crown the “King of the Two Seas.”

While the race retains its traditional start and finish locations, this year’s route introduces a different dynamic. The 2026 edition does not feature a summit finish, instead favouring rolling terrain and punchy climbs that could encourage aggressive racing and late attacks. As a result, the general classification is expected to remain tightly contested, with seconds likely to prove decisive throughout the week.

For Bahrain Victorious, the GC challenge will be led by Antonio Tiberi, who returns after finishing third overall in 2025. The Italian arrives targeting another strong result despite a course that may not fully suit his strengths.

“My goal is definitely to achieve the best possible result in the general classification,” Tiberi said. “Tirreno–Adriatico is a race I feel deeply connected to and one of my favourites during the season.”

The absence of a major summit finish, however, could make the fight for the overall standings more tactical.

“I would have preferred a long and demanding climb that suits me better,” he admitted. “But even if the route is not perfect for my characteristics, I’m happy to be here and I’ll give my best. I expect the race to be decided by seconds.”

The race opens with the traditional 11.5km individual time trial in Lido di Camaiore, where the first Blue Jersey will be decided. Attention then shifts to Stage 2 (Camaiore– San Gimignano, 206km), where a 5.3km gravel sector in the finale could already shake up the standings.

Sprinters are likely to feature in Stage 3 (Cortona–Magliano de’ Marsi, 221km) and possibly Stage 4 (Tagliacozzo–Martinsicuro, 213km) before the race moves into the Marche region for the final stages. The demanding Stage 6 to Camerino, with nearly 3,900 metres of climbing, is expected to be one of the decisive days.

Alongside Tiberi’s GC bid, Bahrain Victorious will also chase stage victories. Sports director Franco Pellizotti confirmed Santiago Buitrago will act as co-leader but focus more on stage opportunities, with riders such as Attila Valter and Edoardo Zambanini playing key supporting roles.

“We have a very strong roster,” Pellizotti said. “And we expect strong performances from the whole team.”