The Francesco Buffoni Trophy is approaching, the international junior race that will start from Forte dei Marmi and conclude near Villa Schiff in Montignoso. The 56th edition will take place on September 14th. The gathering will be entirely in Forte dei Marmi, with preliminary operations at the municipal building, while the team presentation and unofficial start (at 1 PM) will be accompanied by the national anthem at the "Fortino" in Piazza Garibaldi. The official race start, covering 135.4 km, will be at the Cinquale river bridge at 1:30 PM. The two historic circuits are confirmed: the Versilia loop (Forte-Cinquale-Bonotti-Querceta-Forte), to be repeated four times, and the Fortress circuit (Bonotti-Fortezza-Strettoia-Bonotti), which athletes will tackle six times before the finish at Villa Schiff. There will be 176 riders at the starting line, the maximum number allowed by international regulations, representing 36 teams: 22 of the strongest Italian teams and 14 foreign teams, including national teams from Slovenia, Kazakhstan, and Poland, as well as selections from Mexico and the United States.

At the end of the race, six historic jerseys will be awarded - dedicated to the overall winner, Mountain Grand Prix, most combative rider, best performer of the Fortress Circuit and Versilia Circuit, and the best-placed young rider - along with two special jerseys honoring Marco Pantani and Michele Scarponi. During this morning's race presentation at Villa Schiff, Rodolfo Tenerini, a historic figure of the Trophy, was remembered with a recognition presented to his family for the commitment and dedication shown over the years in supporting the event.

"This year, Montignoso is ready to enthusiastically welcome the Buffoni Trophy, now in its 56th edition," stated Mayor Gianni Lorenzetti. "This is not just a high-level sporting competition, but a moment when our community comes together to celebrate sport, passion, and the talent of young cyclists from across Europe. The Buffoni has become a reference point for the Junior category over the years, a true training ground for future champions. On behalf of the municipal administration and the entire Montignoso community, I want to thank the ASD Francesco Buffoni, the organizers, volunteers, law enforcement, and the Tuscany Region, which, through its support, recognizes the sporting and promotional value of this event. Welcome to Montignoso to all athletes, teams, accompanying staff, and spectators: it will be a day of sport, emotions, and sharing."

Fabio Del Giudice, president of the Buffoni Trophy, emphasized the importance of synergy with local institutions: "The support of the Montignoso Municipality is fundamental for us, and I want to thank the mayor and the administration for the commitment and proximity they show every year. Organizing an event of this scale requires passion, sacrifice, and teamwork. Knowing we can count on a united community and institutions makes everything more solid and allows us to look ahead with confidence. The Buffoni Trophy has grown over time precisely because of this collaborative network, which enables us to bring the world's best young cyclists to our roads, transforming the territory into an international showcase of sport and hospitality."