Cepak and Zanetti Claim Overall Victory at the 44th UCI Maraton Franja BTC City Granfondo

Over 3,000 cyclists gathered today in Ljubljana for the 44th UCI Maraton Franja BTC City Granfondo, a prestigious event that serves as a qualifying race for the 2025 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships

The race featured two challenging routes, the 156 km Granfondo and the 97 km Mediofondo, showcasing the talents of amateur and elite cyclists alike.

Italian rider Igor Zanetti (NEW MOLINI DOLO-NMD) emerged victorious in the Granfondo, completing the demanding course in a remarkable time of 3:34:46. Zanetti's strategic sprint in the final stretch allowed him to outpace a large breakaway group, securing a hard-fought win ahead of last year’s champion, Federico Pozzetto (MG.K VIS-OLMO-PROMOTECH), who finished in second place. Slovenian cyclist Matic Groselj (A2U BIKES) rounded out the podium in third.

In an equally exhilarating finish, Slovenia's Lina Cepak (SANTINI SQUADRA CORSE) clinched victory in the women’s Granfondo category. In a nail-biting photo finish, Cepak outmaneuvered her teammate Petra Pasar (SANTINI SQUADRA CORSE), who took second place, while Vesna Alegro Baznik (KOLESARSKO DRUŠTVO SPRINT) secured third.

The Mediofondo, a shorter but equally competitive route of 97km, saw impressive performances from both men and women. Pia Bedene Kralj (KK IZVIR VIPAVA) captured the title of fastest woman with a time of 2:25:17, while Manuel Fedele (NEW LIMITS MONTURANESE) led the men with a winning time of 2:19:34.

This year’s Granfondo not only provided a platform for riders to showcase their skills but also served as a qualifying event for the upcoming UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, set to take place in Australia in October 2025. Cyclists finishing in the top 25% of their respective UCI age/gender categories earned their spot at this prestigious global competition.

The UCI Maraton Franja BTC City Granfondo continues to be a highlight on the cycling calendar, attracting participants from all over the world to experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Slovenia. This year’s event was marked by fierce competition, camaraderie, and the spirit of sportsmanship that defines the cycling community.

Link to 2025 UCI Maraton Franja BTC City Results: https://www.timingljubljana.si/rezultati.aspx?IDtekme=6752&tip=B&embed=1