Imagine a young cyclist so talented, he’s reigniting dreams of a new 'Golden Era' for Italian cycling. That’s Lorenzo Finn, and his sights are set on nothing less than bringing the Giro d’Italia home in 2026. But here’s where it gets controversial: can a 19-year-old, no matter how gifted, truly conquer one of cycling’s most grueling races? Let’s dive in.
Lorenzo Finn, arguably Italy’s brightest rising star, exploded onto the scene in 2025 with a breakthrough season that left the cycling world in awe. His victory at the U23 World Championships in Rwanda wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Paired with consistently stellar performances across nearly every race, Finn has become the name on everyone’s lips. His talent hasn’t gone unnoticed; he’s extended his contract with Red Bull - Bora - hansgrohe until 2028, though he’ll remain in their development team for 2026. Currently training in Spain alongside legends like Primoz Roglic and Remco Evenepoel, Finn is soaking up knowledge and pushing his limits.
And this is the part most people miss: while the glitz of racing grabs headlines, the off-season grind is where champions are made. Finn openly admits that November and December are all about the basics—gym sessions, long rides, and easy recovery. ‘There’s no race adrenaline,’ he told bici.pro. Yet, training alongside cycling titans in Palma de Mallorca isn’t just routine—it’s a masterclass in what it takes to reach the top. ‘You look around, and there’s Roglic on one side, Remco on the other,’ Finn shared. ‘It’s surreal, but this is my new reality.’
For 2026, Finn’s goals are crystal clear. Among the Under-23s, he’s targeting the Liège-Bastogne-Liège U23, the Giro Next Gen, and the Tour de l'Avenir. These aren’t just races—they’re stepping stones to proving his mettle in long-stage competitions. But Finn isn’t stopping there. He’s also eyeing professional events like the Tour of the Alps, where he aims to make his mark, even if it’s just by supporting his team. Altitude training and time trial preparation are high on his agenda, with a particular focus on mastering the TT bike. ‘I want to feel competitive,’ he emphasized.
When pressed about his ultimate ambition, Finn doesn’t hesitate. While he’s already tasted World Championship glory, the Giro d’Italia holds a special place in his heart. ‘A pink jersey is always special,’ he said, reflecting on his sixth-place finish last year. ‘And it’s a home race.’ But is he ready to stand atop the podium? That’s the million-dollar question.
Here’s where you come in: Do you think Finn has what it takes to win the Giro in 2026? Or is the leap from U23 to Grand Tour victory too ambitious for a 19-year-old? Let’s spark a debate in the comments—agree, disagree, or share your own take on cycling’s next big star.
