After saying that she would likely retire at the end of 2022 when asked earlier in the year, Marta Bastianelli has decided to carry on for another year on her current team. Talk of retirement had cooled and was noticeably absent over the summer, making many wonder if she had decided to retire or not. Bastianelli has been a long-time staple of the women’s peloton, winning the World Championship in 2007. After a few years in the wilderness, Bastianelli has won a race each year since 2013.
I am very happy to stay with the team. We have decided together that with my experience I can contribute for another year to the development of young and new riders. I would like to finish my career with another Grand Tour, and with a win. Then we will decide together with the team about the last step in my career.
In the meantime, I am happy and excited to be part of UAE Team ADQ’s project. The philosophy of UAE Team ADQ corresponds to my values: sharing knowledge and always wanting to go further. In the final chapter of my career, I will always do my best and try to win.”
Marta Bastianelli
Bastianelli had won 7 races during the 2022 season, although none were at the Women’s WorldTour level. That said, she did come close including 2nd in the Tour de France Femmes behind Marianne Vos on Stage 6.
“Over the past season, Marta has proven to be a unique rider with expertise and physical qualities. She has won many races for our team and we are happy that she has decided to race for us for another year. For us she is the foundation of the group. Her behaviour and experience are priceless for the youngest riders of the team.”
Rubens Bertogliati, UAE Team ADQ team manager
