Cofidis add Italian U23 champion Edoardo Zamperini to 2026 roster

Team Cofidis have confirmed the signing of Edoardo Zamperini, the Italian Under-23 national road race champion, on a two-year deal running through to the end of 2027. The 22-year-old climber joins from Arkéa – B&B Hôtels Continental Team and becomes the final new addition to Cofidis’s line-up for the upcoming season.

The move is the latest sign of Cofidis’s commitment to nurturing young talent, following the recent signing of French prospect Camille Charret. The team’s management described the arrival of Zamperini as part of a new phase of renewal and ambition for the northern-based WorldTeam.

Born in Grezzana, near Verona, Zamperini is regarded as one of Italy’s most promising emerging riders. He first came to prominence with a series of strong results in the Italian amateur scene, including victories at the GP Kranj and Trofeo Antonietto Rancilio, before his national U23 title in 2024 confirmed his place among the country’s top young climbers. In 2025, he represented Italy at the Orlen Nations Grand Prix, finishing fourth on the final stage.

Zamperini described himself as a puncher-climber, with a preference for tough, undulating races and medium mountain terrain. “I’m very excited to be joining Cofidis,” he said. “It’s one of the most well-known and respected teams in the world. I’ve already experienced the professionalism of French cycling structures, and I’m looking forward to continuing my development here. I want to dedicate myself to supporting my teammates and improving next season, but I also hope to seize opportunities to go for victories as early as 2027.”

Cofidis general manager Raphaël Jeune praised the signing as part of the team’s long-term strategy. “Edoardo has shown with his U23 championship win that he’s one of the brightest young Italian riders of his generation. We’re eager to help him develop within a professional environment and guide him as he takes the next steps in his career. Along with Camille Charret, his arrival reinforces our commitment to building a future with young, ambitious riders.”

Zamperini began his career with Officine Alberti Val d’Illasi as a child and progressed through the Italian development structure, riding for Zalf Euromobil Fior in 2022 before turning professional with Arkéa’s continental squad. His technical climbing ability, combined with an attacking racing style, has already earned him attention as a potential stage racer for the future.

The addition of Zamperini brings Cofidis’s roster to 30 riders, completing its line-up for 2026 as the team continues to blend youthful promise with experienced leadership in the next phase of its WorldTour project.