Team Polti Kometa signs Zoccarato, escape artist and Italian gravel champion

After announcing renewals and U23 riders turning professional (including internal promotions like Raccagni, Garchu and Buttigieg, as well as a new signing like Crescioli) Polti Kometa secures a new signing from another ProTeam. Following four years with the Reverberi family, Samuele Zoccarato is now joining the Fundación Contador structure with a contract for 2025.

A native of San Giorgio delle Pertiche, near Padua, the 1998-born Zoccarato has been cycling since the age of five and is known for his strength in breakaways. He’s made a name for himself with solo moves in major races like the Tirreno Adriatico and Giro d’Italia, as well as winning the KOM classification in shorter stage races across Europe. Although he hasn’t yet achieved a road victory, he’s a two-time Italian champion (2022 and 2024) in gravel racing.

Zoccarato: “I find this new experience truly inspiring, the entire squad gave me a warm welcome during the Malta training camp at the end of October. Besides giving a heartfelt thank you to my previous team, I’d like to thank Ivan Basso for the great trust he has shown in me and Mirco Maestri for recommending my signing.”

Sports Director Stefano Zanatta: “We know Samuele’s strengths well, which align perfectly with our style. A rider like him makes a great impression in any setting, providing strong support for both climbers and sprinters, with the ability to create long-distance moves. Plus, he still has room for improvement… and having an Italian champion jersey on the roster is always a welcome bonus!”