Banca Mediolanum and Giro d'Italia continue their Journey Together

One of the longest-running partnerships in Italian cycling continues and is renewed: after more than twenty years, the historic sponsorship of the King of the Mountains classification at the Giro d’Italia with Banca Mediolanum goes on. Launched in 2003, the collaboration will see Banca Mediolanum once again lend its name to the iconic climbs and to the jerseys of the Giro d’Italia Women and Giro Next Gen.

On the occasion of the announcement, Massimo Doris and Urbano Cairo unveiled the Maglia Azzurra, the blue jersey symbolising the best climber and one of the most coveted jerseys in the history of cycling.

The event, held in Milan at Palazzo Biandrà and presented by Barbara Pedrotti, was also attended by some of the greatest champions in the history of Italian cycling, as well as long-standing ambassadors of Banca Mediolanum: Alessandro Ballan, Paolo Bettini, Maurizio Fondriest, Gianni Motta and Dalia Muccioli. Together, they brought to life a narrative spanning generations of great feats on the mountains of the Giro.

Quotes

Massimo Doris, CEO of Banca Mediolanum: “The renewal of the sponsorship of the Maglia Azzurra of the King of the Mountains confirms a commitment that for Banca Mediolanum has both strategic and identity value. The Giro d’Italia represents a sporting and cultural heritage capable of bringing the country together, crossing territories and communities with unique energy. It is also a concrete and valuable opportunity to meet thousands of clients in their cities, on their own roads, in a moment of popular celebration that brings together different audiences and generations. Each year the Giro reaches new locations and, with them, new clients: it is a dynamic, widespread experience that reflects the way we choose to be present across the territory. The mountains, in particular, symbolise a long-term vision, because they require preparation, determination and the ability to face every climb with clarity and courage. These are the principles that also guide our approach—being at our clients’ side every day. We will continue to experience the Giro with the same spirit used to tackle a demanding stage, aware of the challenges but focused on the goal with confidence and responsibility towards the future”.

Urbano Cairo, President of RCS MediaGroup: “Banca Mediolanum is now an integral part of the Giro d’Italia family and far more than a historic partner. The extension of the agreement for a further three years confirms the strength of a relationship built over time on shared values, vision and mutual trust. The Doris family, from Ennio to Massimo, has been able to recognise in the Corsa Rosa a unique tool for engaging with territories and people, meeting clients and fans along the roads of Italy. A choice that has proven successful, making Banca Mediolanum the longest-standing partner in the history of the Giro. We look with great satisfaction to this new chapter of a collaboration that will continue to grow and to write important pages in the story of the Giro d’Italia”.

Gianni Motta: “It’s truly wonderful to collaborate with Banca Mediolanum: it’s a meaningful and engaging commitment. This year marks 60 years since my Giro d’Italia victory, and the Corsa Rosa will also start from my hometown, Cassano d’Adda — a very special emotion. Since 1964 I’ve missed only one Giro: being part of this project is always a pleasure. There’s a great team and a lot to do, but that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding”.

Alessandro Ballan: “The ride with Banca Mediolanum it’s an explosion of emotions, starting from the moment the jersey is handed over. The most beautiful part of the ride is seeing the roads decorated like a celebration: everyone feels part of the group, united by the same passion. On the climbs, people recognize the champions and cheer us on. It’s wonderful for the clients, but also for us — thanks to Banca Mediolanum, I’m able to relive emotions that are an essential part of my story”.

Paolo Bettini: “The Giro d’Italia is the greatest travelling popular celebration we have. Of course, we focus on sport, but the race is also an opportunity to generate a whole ecosystem around it. Banca Mediolanum understood this many years ago, using sport to create aggregation and shared experiences. Towns dress up for the occasion, and we’re used to being among the people: enthusiasm and joy lift everything to another level. Along the route, hundreds of thousands of fans line the roads — and that is real added value”.

Maurizio Fondriest: “The best part of the Banca Mediolanum rides is that these are safe rides, and there are very few sports where you can practice alongside great champions. Banca Mediolanum has many clients who are passionate about cycling, and for them it’s far from ordinary to ride under the finish line of a Giro d’Italia stage. For us it’s normal, but for the participants it’s a truly special experience”.

Dalia Muccioli: “There are more and more women riding bikes, playing leading roles both as athletes and as fans — and that represents enormous value. Until recently, female participation was often just a side element; today we’re seeing real growth and stronger recognition of women’s cycling. The women’s movement is growing, and that’s a very powerful signal: every woman who rides helps pave the way for those who will follow”.