Human Powered Health Cycling Team is set to bolster its ranks with the signing of Silvia Zanardi, Katia Ragusa, and Linda Zanetti for the 2024 season. The Italian-speaking trio is poised to add a significant blend of speed, skill, and experience to both the classics squad and stage races.
Silvia Zanardi, an all-rounder who claimed a stage victory at the Tour Feminin l’Ardèche, will be stepping up to the Women’s WorldTour after a fruitful five-year stint at the continental level. Expressing her enthusiasm, Zanardi conveyed her happiness about joining Human Powered Health, looking forward to learning from her older teammates and embracing new races. Kenny Latomme, the team’s Performance Director, recognises Zanardi’s prowess, particularly highlighting her strategic success and strong finish after tough races.
Zanardi, a native of Fiorenzuola d’Arda, who exchanged ballet for cycling at a tender age, is still discovering her racing niche and even playfully entertained the prospect of falling in love with Belgian races. She also brings to the team her prowess on the track, where she won the Madison at the European Championships in 2022, asserting the importance of track cycling for rhythm and cadence in road races. Off the racecourse, Zanardi pursues her passion for art, which she finds mentally soothing.
Katia Ragusa is another stellar addition, riding the wave of her impressive second-place finish at the Paris-Roubaix Femmes. Ragusa articulated her eagerness to be part of what she perceives as an exciting project at Human Powered Health. Recognised for her enduring abilities, particularly in the Spring Classics and hilly races, Ragusa eyes a prominent role within the team. Having honed her skills from a young age in the cycling-rich environment of Schio, Vicenza, Latomme believes her one-day race expertise and ability to thrive on cobbles will be invaluable, especially in supporting climbers in stage races. Away from the tarmac, Ragusa enjoys life’s simpler pleasures, exploring nature accompanied by her four dogs.
Credit: Anouk Flesch
Swiss rider Linda Zanetti, after a breakthrough year with notable wins, is described by Latomme as a ‘diamond in the making’. Her versatility across different terrains makes her a precious asset for the team’s ambitions. Zanetti, enthusiastic about her return to the WorldTour with Human Powered Health, credits her mountain biking background for her technical skills and affirms her affinity for the classics.
As Human Powered Health Cycling shapes its 2024 team, the arrival of Zanardi, Ragusa, and Zanetti marks a significant strengthening of its competitive edge, promising an exciting season ahead for the team and its new recruits.
