Published on : 08/28/2026
The Italian sprinter from Cofidis is on a roll! Having already claimed three victories this season, Martina struck again in Tuscany by winning the sprint on Stage 1. It was a remarkable team effort, with Nadia Quagliotto and Kristyna Burlova finishing in 2nd and 6th place respectively. Let’s take a look back at what was a cracking race!
And in the end, it was Martina Alzini who won! The Italian sprinter, who hadn’t won a race since 2023, has been racking up the victories this season. She had triumphed in the first sprint at the Tour of the Pyrenees last June. A month later, she crossed the line first at the Tour of Portugal and then in Belgium (Dwars door Wingene). And this afternoon, she added a fourth victory on the roads of the Tour of Tuscany.
The victory is all the sweeter because it is the result of a tremendous team effort. It was by no means easy, however, as the team faced several mechanical problems during the day. But the riders remained focused, aware that everything would be decided in the final stretch. The Cofidis train got into position and dictated the pace in the final stretch. The whole team’s efforts put Martina in the best possible position, as did Nadia Quagliotto, who finished second.
Thanks to the time bonuses she picked up during the stage, Martina has also taken the leader’s jersey. There are now two stages left to race, and one thing is certain: the Cofidis team will be a force to be reckoned with right to the very end.
Reactions:
Martina Alzini :
"It was a special day: we knew we were among the favorites, but we showed that we were truly the strongest. The girls did an amazing lead-out, to the point that Nadia finished 2nd right behind me! I believe strongly in the process that leads us to victory, and everything counts: the staff's day-to-day commitment and the trust the girls place in me for this kind of race. I'm very happy: you never get tired of winning! And I'm sure we'll have more days like this one!"
Gaëtan Lemoine, sporting director:
"Since the stage had no difficulties, we'd planned to make our move at the last moment in the sprint. We knew we had a strong team for the final effort, and the girls delivered. The lead-out was so effective that Nadia finished second! This win is going to let us keep up great momentum until the end of the season. Now, in Tuscany, we're going to do everything we can to keep this run going. When you win, it shows you're in the game. It's up to us to stay there!"
