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Fragnini and Machner Claim Overall Titles in Thrilling Season Opener

The 2026 Gran Fondo Portorose delivered fast racing and dramatic finishes as Diego Fragnini and Kathi Machner took the overall titles on a clear spring day along the Slovenian Adriatic coast.

Fragnini and Machner Claim Overall Titles in Thrilling Season Opener

The event attracted elite and amateur riders to two courses — the 135 km gran fondo and the 85 km medio fondo — showcasing strong international fields and spirited competition.

In the 135 km gran fondo, 30-year-old Italian Diego Fragnini (Team Factor Hicari Stemax) rode a decisive solo to the finish, crossing the line in 3:20:20 to claim the men’s overall title. Fragnini, who arrives off a notable 2024 victory at the Gran Fondo Strade Bianche, broke clear in the latter stages and extended his advantage to take a clear win. Teammate Emmanuele Romagnolo and Patrik Mikac rounded out the podium, both credited with a time of 3:21:52. On the women’s side, 31-year-old Austrian Kathi Machner (Team, Cookina Graz) produced a powerful ride to win the 135 km race in 3:48:58, demonstrating superior endurance and race craft on the coastal terrain.

The shorter 85 km medio fondo provided its own share of excitement. Arno Kaspret (Styria Cycline Team) took the men’s medio win in 2:08:59 after a sustained effort that kept chasers at bay. He was followed closely by Antonino Adragna and Lan Drinovec, who finished just seconds behind. In the medio women’s race, Sara Rokavec (RikiTeam) secured first place in 2:16:10, holding a steady pace and managing key climbs to protect her lead.

“Today’s course rewarded bold moves and consistent power,” said race director Nico Cokan “We saw seasoned champions and rising talents use smart tactics and sheer determination to claim victory. Portorose continues to be a fantastic season opener for riders aiming to test form and set their goals for the year.”

Organizers praised the competitive fields, the well-marked routes, and local community support that helped deliver a smooth event. The seaside location, mild early-March weather and varied terrain made for a challenging but spectator-friendly day. Medical, neutral support and feed zones were fully operational, and race officials confirmed all results following standard timing and verification procedures.

Gran Fondo Portorose remains committed to growing participation and raising event standards, with plans to enhance rider experience and spectator engagement in future editions. The event serves both competitive athletes and recreational riders, offering well-supported race options and pathways for cyclists at different levels.

About Gran Fondo Portorose Gran Fondo Portorose is an annual cycling event held in Portorose, Slovenia, featuring multiple race distances that attract domestic and international riders. The event combines competitive racing with community engagement and aims to promote cycling tourism along the Slovenian Adriatic coast.

Link to 2026 Gran Fondo Portorose: https://prijavim.se/results/live_score/6193

 
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