The leader of Bardiani-CSF for Milano-Sanremo, Sonny Colbrelli, is ready to face the first key event of his season. Volta Valenciana, Trofeo Laigueglia (second place), GP Lugano (victory), Strade Bianche and Tirreno-Adriatico have been the steps he did to prepare for the first Monument Classic in the best way.

“The path to the race has been positive. I did good performances until now and this is the proof that winter program was good. I feel on form. At Tirreno-Adriatico I didn’t achieve great results, also due to bad luck in the wrong moment, but it’s not a drama. What I wanted from was the competition with top riders. Together with Zanatta we analyzed every performance and racing behavior day by day. Every detail was a useful addition to my development of skills,” said Colbrelli.

Looking to hispast experiences at Milano-Sanremo, a special feeling immediately stands out - 6th place in 2014, 12th in 2013 and 18th in 2015. In every edition, Colbrelli always finished the race in the front group.

“Rarely I found a race so suited to my characteristics, but I don’t want to give too much weight to stats. In my mind I’ll ride this Classic for the first time. I know I have a precious background, but I want to be hungry as a neoprofessional rider who wants to impress”.

“I don't feel like I am among the favorite riders, obviously. Sagan, Kristoff, Cancellara, Matthews, Van Avermaet, Boasson Hagen and others - these are the names. But, honestly, I don’t want to feel out of the game before the start. Milano-Sanremo is the most unpredictable cycling race, many factors work on riders’ performances. You need legs, because it’s not easy be competitive after 290 km, and you need to be sharp, especially in the hottest moment before playing your chances on the final straight in Sanremo."

“I always said that winning Classicissima should be a dream for me, but if everything runs in the same direction, it’s right to aim high. I have a lot of motivation and trust in my teammates. We are not used to make slogans, but we want to make a promise - doing more than one hundred percent to try,” added Colbrelli.