It is likely that Giulio Ciccone will change teams next year, despite having a contract binding him to Lidl-Trek until the end of 2029, but the change in management within the squad that was once American-based and is now German-owned has prompted the 31-year-old Abruzzo-born rider to ask his agents (Johnny and Alex Carera, ed.) to sound out the market in order to seek a fresh start.

Ciccone, who will only reach the Italian national team tomorrow after an extended training period in Vermont (in the northeastern United States, ed.) is absolutely keen to change teams and everything suggests that his next destination could be Pinarello-Q36.5, the team led by Tom Pidcock. In short, these are hot days for Giulio, who will lead the national team on Sunday in the World Championship race, but also for his agents, who are seeking a smooth "exit" for their client, who boasts 13 professional victories including his 2025 win at the Clásica San Sebastián, podium finishes at Lombardia (3rd in 2024) and Liège (2nd in 2025), the mountains jersey won at both the Giro (twice) and the Tour, as well as having worn the yellow jersey at the Grande Boucle (for two days in 2019), and the pink jersey at the Giro (in 2026).

It is unclear whether the rider will have to pay a release clause, but it is almost certain that a three-year contract with Pinarello-Q36.5 is already being prepared for him.