SHIMANO RENEWS TECHNICAL SERVICE SUPPORT AT GIRO D’ITALIA AND OTHER RCS SPORT RACES

Riders at Strade Bianche, Tirreno-Adriatico, Milan-Sanremo, Giro di Sicilia, Giro d'Italia, Giro-E, Gran Piemonte, Milan-Turin and Il Lombardia to have Shimano support for a further four years.

Shimano is proud to announce the renewal of its agreement with RCS Sport, taking on Official Partner status for neutral technical assistance in a number of prestigious bicycle races including the Giro d'Italia and the classics such as the Milan-Sanremo and Il Lombardia.

The service at RCS Sport’s races will be provided from the company’s technical service base in Milan.

Shimano Italy's commitment to offering neutral assistance in the race comes from the desire to ensure that all riders can safely and successfully compete in races even in the face of technical problems. A team of mechanics deployed in cars and motorcycles will provide mobile assistance by following athletes on the road, while a team of mechanics located in specific points on the road will also provide technical support in the event of mechanical difficulties.

Following a recent announcement for neutral support in the Tour de France, the renewed agreement with RCS elevates Shimano's commitment as a neutral assistance partner in the most important World Tour cycling races. As well as the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia, the blue cars and motorcycles of Shimano will support riders competing in the Vuelta a Espana, the Spring Classics such as Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders, UCI World Championship races and the Olympics, helping Shimano in its goal of becoming the favored brand for new and existing cyclists.

Eduardo Roldan, CEO of Shimano Italia stated: "We are delighted to continue our partnership with RCS Sport. With a continued presence at high profile races such as the Giro D’Italia we are able to demonstrate our commitment to facilitating world-class bike racing, exciting fans and motivating new riders. When it’s safe to do so, we look forward to meeting new and existing customers on the streets of Italy later this year."

Paolo Bellino, CEO and General Manager of RCS Sport, said: "Having a partner like Shimano at our races, with its history and experience gained from many World Tour cycling races, means giving riders the guarantee of receiving a first-class support in the event of any unexpected technical issues."

"Shimano is a brand recognized all over the world; its blue cars and motorcycles, which stand out in the group, have always been a symbol of safety. We are confident that the riders and our races are in good hands."

The first race of Shimano's neutral assistance service within the RCS Sport calendar is Strade Bianche which will take place in Siena on 6 March 2021.

1. Embargo: Friday 5th March, 10:00 CST

2. Images and video: Please credit images to Luigi Sestili: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/cjy8rdgfjyzdo8v/AADtvB7BTnFtSPvhKTbPFkc3a?dl=0

3. About RCS Sport: RCS Sport is a Sports & Media Company that leads the Italian market with unmatched skills , expertise and a broad offer of services for the creation and management of international sport events. Its portfolio encompasses professional sports (cycling, basketball and running) and mass participation events for running and cycling enthusiasts.