Alessandro De Marchi eyeing Vuelta a España after rough start to the season

Although age may start to weight, Alessandro De Marchi has until last year struck gold on few but strong occasions. This season with Israel - Premier Tech he's been one of the many riders hampered by illnesses and injuries, but he's looking to put that behind and have a strong finale to the season.

"Now it's time to resume. I will go to altitude [Livigno] to prepare for what will be the rest of the season," he told bici.News. "The idea is to race the Vuelta. For this I should have a good period at high altitude, two full weeks. Then refine the condition by passing through the Tour of Poland. And from there go directly to Spain."

With his calendar set it will be time to put in the work. Covid-19 and further illnesses have seen the 36-year old struggle through the season, failing to bring a win but also often missing out on breakaways where he'd be expected to battle for. His post-Giro schedule also included some racing as the team was in need of riders, and so the Italian could only take real rest after the national championships.

He's still without a contract for 2023, however his focus currently is on preparing for the final months of the season: "... I have put aside post career thoughts and want to go back to being myself. I want too much to still have the old sensations and do a complete season without hassles, troubles and various annoyances," he said.

"Plus I have to find a team or renew my contract. There is still time to think about the retired "Dema"!" De Marchi concluded.