07 Apr Metallurgica Veneta MTB Pro Team Shines at the Savigno Race with a Third Consecutive Victory!
Metallurgica Veneta MTB Pro Team Makes History: Third Consecutive Victory at the Savigno Race!
April 7, 2025 – Savigno (BO) – The Savigno Race 2025, a demanding 41 km point-to-point event through the hills of Valsamoggia near Bologna, once again saw the Metallurgica Veneta MTB Pro Team dominate the field. For the third year in a row, a rider from the Marradi-based team claimed the top step of the podium—a result made even more meaningful after two difficult weeks for the squad.
Following the disappointments at Monteriggioni and Alassio—races plagued by setbacks and missed opportunities—the Metallurgica Veneta MTB Pro Team returned to the top with a brilliant one-two finish, repeating the feat achieved by Jacopo Billi and Massimo Rosa in 2024. This result stands as a true comeback after the tough moments experienced at the Granfondo Muretto di Alassio and the Granfondo Castello di Monteriggioni, which had temporarily halted the team’s momentum. But today, Metallurgica Veneta MTB Pro Team wrote a new chapter in its history.
Andrea Candeago broke away solo with 20 kilometers to go, sealing the victory with a powerful solo effort. Jacopo Billi played a key team role, sacrificing his own chances to protect his teammate, ultimately finishing just one second ahead of Lorenzo Trincheri at the line. This marks Candeago’s first victory in the team’s colors, and his first win since Via dei Berici, six months ago.
Meanwhile, Massimo Rosa crossed the line in eighth place, 4 minutes and 8 seconds behind the winner. He managed his race smartly, fully aware that he’s not yet back to peak form. Still, the result is a clear step forward from his recent outings—a steady progression where consistency will be crucial in his path back to the front of the race.
Team Statements
Andrea Candeago – 1st place:
“This win came at the perfect moment. After a quiet start to the season and a couple of unlucky races in recent weeks, we finally bounced back. Jacopo and I pulled off the perfect move—when he told me to go, I went all in. Dedicating this win to the team, especially after what happened in Monteriggioni and Alassio, makes it even more special. We worked really well together, broke away as a pair, and opened up a gap while a small group chased behind us. At one point Jacopo told me, ‘if you’ve got more, go,’ and I didn’t hesitate. From there, I rode solo all the way to the finish, pushing as hard as I could both uphill and on the flats. I finished with a 40-second lead. I’m happy, and I hope to keep this momentum going.”
Jacopo Billi – key to the team’s strategy:
“The race went well, and I’m happy with it. I didn’t have the best sensations, but as a team we got the most out of the day. I made the decisive move early on, and then Andrea caught up with strong legs and joined me. We ended up off the front together, and I could tell he was riding really well. In the end, we played our cards smartly—I think it surprised the others. I tried to defend his lead from behind, knowing he had the legs today. And if he had been caught, I was ready to play my own chances. It was a great day overall. We’re happy, and now it’s time to focus on what’s next.”
Team Manager’s Statement:
“We’re back at the top. After what happened in Alassio, we needed a response, and this double victory has been a true release. After two tough weeks, with various issues and results below expectations, today we’ve shown that we’re still competitive. Candeago was flawless, Billi was a generous leader, and Rosa had a solid race. This proves the team’s character. Now we have to stay on this path, with the 4 Island race coming up in two weeks, where we hope to solidify this turning point.”
