The great evening of the Cycling Stars Criterium opened with an exciting appetizer dedicated to former professional cyclists, this year enriched by the participation of athletes from other sports disciplines, capable of delivering spectacular performances and emotions to the numerous spectators along the city circuit's kilometer.

Triumphing was the 2008 World Champion Alessandro Ballan, protagonist of a lively race full of twists and turns. Behind him was Roberto Pagnin, while on the third step of the podium stood a surprising Marco Melandri, former MotoGP rider who demonstrated great grit even on non-motorized two wheels.

From the first pedal strokes, the race proved to be fierce and spectacular, with numerous attacks and relaunches that inflamed the public. Davide Cassani was the first to break the ice, trying to pull ahead in the first meters, initiating a series of attempts that however never managed to make a difference.

In the final meters, with his famous finisseur sprint, Ballan managed to break away, leaving all his opponents behind and crossing the finish line with arms raised.