Former Astana Qazaqstan Team sports director pinpoints problem with Italian cycling: "We need more teams"

Giuseppe Martinelli has confirmed that he will step down from his role at Astana Qazaqstan for 2024. However, the Italian remains passionate about contributing to the sport and is particularly concerned about the state of Italian cycling. Among his concerns is the lack of opportunities for young talent, including rising star Lorenzo Finn.

Speaking to Radiocorsa, Martinelli reflected on Finn’s immense potential, praising the junior world champion for his exceptional ability, “I have seen him swing; his style is incredible,” Martinelli said. “Two years ago, I said he could be a future champion.” However, he expressed frustration at the challenges young Italian riders face due to the lack of national teams capable of nurturing their talent. “If we had had an Italian team coaching him, he could develop here, like he used to do at Lampre or Liquigas,” Martinelli remarked.

Martinelli used Finn as an example of the structural issues plaguing Italian cycling. Since the merger of Lampre-Merida into UAE Team Emirates in 2016, Italy has lacked a dedicated WorldTour team, forcing many young riders to seek opportunities abroad. “Our young riders often leave overseas, where they can't fully develop,” he explained, emphasizing the need for more Italian-led teams to create a supportive environment for riders like Finn.

The 69-year-old sees the development of young talent as crucial to reviving Italian cycling’s fortunes. “We need more teams, like Reverberi's or Basso's, with Italian management and sponsors,” Martinelli urged. He is convinced that the lack of Italian teams at both WorldTour and Pro-Continental levels significantly hinders the sport's growth. “If we had one or two more important teams, even at the Pro-Continental level, the future would look much brighter,” he added.

Despite the challenges, Martinelli remains optimistic about the potential for Italian cycling to recover with the right resources and efforts. “If young riders can grow in their own country, we have a better chance of producing a new generation of top riders,” he said, stressing the importance of fostering homegrown talent.

As he steps away from Astana, Martinelli is ready to take on a role where his experience can make a difference. “With the right efforts and more support, Italian cycling can flourish again,” he concluded, reaffirming his commitment to the sport and the next generation of stars like Lorenzo Finn.