Tro-Bro Léon: Filippo Fiorelli solos clear 3km from finish to win part-gravel Classic

Filippo Fiorelli secured a remarkable victory at the 2026 Tro-Bro Léon, a challenging 202-kilometre part-gravel classic held in Lannilis, Brittany. The Italian rider, competing for Visma-Lease a Bike, launched a decisive solo attack with just under three kilometres remaining, breaking clear from a select group of eleven riders. This win marked the second of Fiorelli’s career and an impressive debut at the Breton race, where he outpaced notable competitors including Fred Wright and Benoît Cosnefroy. The race featured a demanding route incorporating 29 ribin gravel sectors—unpaved farm tracks that vary in difficulty and terrain—adding a unique tactical element to the event. Early breakaways were established but eventually reeled in, while multiple attacks and regroupings characterised the latter stages. Fiorelli’s Visma teammates Axel Zingle and Per Strand Hagenes played key roles in the lead group, helping to set the stage for Fiorelli’s winning move. Despite strong chases, Fiorelli managed to hold off his pursuers to cross the finish line solo. In reflecting on his victory, Fiorelli dedicated the win to his late directeur sportif Marcello Massini, who had been a significant influence on his career. He emphasised the importance of racing with Visma, describing the team as one of the best in the world and highlighting the increased responsibilities and support that come with it. Fiorelli also credited team tactics, noting how Zingle’s presence allowed him to time his attack perfectly. Behind Fiorelli, the sprint for second place was won by local Breton rider Alexis Renard, who earned the traditional piglet statuette awarded to the best home rider. Lewis Askey completed the podium in third place. The race demonstrated the growing prominence of part-gravel classics in the cycling calendar, blending traditional road racing with off-road challenges, and showcased the tactical depth and resilience required to succeed in such events. Fiorelli’s breakthrough performance may well boost his profile in the sport and signal further success in similar races.