For twelve editions Italy’s Granfondo Terre dei Varano has been the cornerstone of the Marche Gran Fondo Marathon Series, promoting an amateur race based on the principles of loyalty, fairness and respect for the rules – specifically anti-doping rules, leaving no room for anyone who is not willing to respect them.

Unfortunately, according to Granfondo Terre dei Varano the other organisers in the series do not share these values or follow rules issued by the Italian Cycling Federation (FCI) and the event has withdrawn from the 2022 series.

“We consider doping an extremely negative phenomenon, to be countered always and in every way, safeguarding the huge number of enthusiasts who ride clean, with sacrifices and dedication.  Furthermore, our vision of keeping ethical legislation as a cornerstone was not shared by other events of the Marche Marathon Series and we preferred to leave it.” Granfondo Terre dei Varano

25% of the winners of Granfondo Terre dei Varano (Bazhenov, Lattanzi and most recently Pisani) have been disqualified for doping, or as one cyclists said, “Posing as horses when in fact they were donkeys…”

“Unfortunately, over the years and even recently, we have had to face several cases of competitors who have not respected the anti-doping rules: our attitude was clear and we acted legally to protect the image of our event and also of most of the fans who instead share these values.”  Granfondo Terre dei Varano

On Twitter the event’s hardline stance against amateur doping was strongly supported by Italian cyclists:

Diego Filiberto Bernacchia – “Granfondo Terre dei Varano you have all my support for your decision.”

Fabrizio Tiburzi – “I have been participating in the Marche marathon since it was born, I’m so sorry it ended this way.  Varano strength and courage are with you!”

Clem Moccia – “Well done right decision I am with you.”

Marche Gran Fondo Marathon Series events not agreeing with Granfondo Terre dei Varano’s desire to address the continued surge of amateur doping at Italian events includes Granfondos Squali, Staducale, Sibillini, Leopardiani, Michele Scarponi and San Benedetto del Tronto.

On 10 July 2022 Granfondo Terre dei Varano will take place in Camerino with strict anti-doping rules and testing to help insure fairness for all.

PHOTOS: Granfonfo Terre dei Varano

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