The Strade Bianche was an unlucky race for Stefano Pirazzi who went down on a gravel sector after having joined the right breakaway and was forced to retire. Sonny Colbrelli was the best for Bardiani rider in Siena.

After the official start the peloton hit a first short climber where Stefano Pirazzi attacked, followed by 7 riders Koshevoy (Lampre), Lozano (Novo Nordisk), Fonzi (Southeast), Berlato (Nippo), Colli (Nippo), Ovechkin (Rusvelo), Arredondo (Trek). They formed the early break and got a lead of 7.30 after the  third gravel sector of Ville di Corsano.

Unfortunately when they tackled the Asciano sector, a strong crosswind gust made Pirazzi hit the ground, hitting the right shoulder and knee hard. The Bardiani rider wasn’t able to get back in the saddle and was transported  to the nearest hospital where a medical check diagnosed a deep hurt over the kneecap, a contusion of the same articulation and some grazes on the right side of the body.

Zdenek Stybar (EQS) won the race ahead of Van Avermaet (BMC) and Valverde (MOV). Sonny Colbrelli was the first Bardiani – CSF rider to cross the finish line in 56th  place after having been present in the leading group until the longest gravel sector of Monte Santa Marie with 50km to go. 

”We’re disappointed and worried about Pirazzi’s crash. He was riding really well and giving a lot of energy in the breakaway. The injuryof his knee could give him some troubles for the upcoming Tirreno – Adriatico," manager Roberto Reverberi said. "About the other guys, we already knew that Strade Bianche is a really demanding race. Colbrelli and Barbin were able to stay with the best inside the longest and thoughest gravel sector of Monte Sante Marie. Without looking at the result, both appeared to be growing and we aim to improve and to be back with important results as soon as possible."