Young Italian talent signs 2-year contract with Visma | Lease a Bike WorldTeam

Mattio finished fifth in Paris-Roubaix for U23 riders this season and has already competed in the Tour of Oman, Milan-Turin, and the Coppi e Bartoli with the WorldTour team. "When Pietro first joined us, he hardly spoke any English and was a very young, somewhat shy boy," recalls Head of Development Robbert de Groot.

"But he has developed rapidly and impressively into a tactically strong, task-focused, and valuable rider. Pietro is now a true team player and a source of positive energy," says De Groot.

"I’m very happy to make the step up to the WorldTour with Team Visma | Lease a Bike,” says Mattio himself. “It’s a dream come true and something I’ve worked hard for since I first got on a racing bike at the age of six."

"This team and its staff have played a key role in getting me to this point. Even though I’ve reached an important goal, this is only the beginning. I want to keep growing like I have in recent years. I look forward to reaching my highest level and supporting the team."

Grischa Niermann, Head of Racing, is also pleased with the move. "Pietro has made a strong impression in our Development Team. Even in races where he competed alongside our WorldTeam, he held his own. We’re pleased to see another homegrown talent move up, and we believe he will continue his development in the WorldTour."