Letizia Paternoster has committed to two more years with Liv AlUla Jayco following a strong 2024 season that has seen her grow into one of the most consistent riders in the women’s peloton. The Italian sprinter, known for her punchy finishes, will remain with the team until at least 2026, continuing her development after notable performances this year.
Paternoster, 25, took part in some of the most prestigious races on the calendar, with a standout top-ten finish in the Tour of Flanders and a podium in Dwars door Vlaanderen. Despite the successes, Paternoster was often left agonisingly close to victory, finishing second on stage 1 of RideLondon and stage 1 of the Tour of Britain. The latter, a nail-biting photo finish, saw her edged out by none other than world champion Lotte Kopecky.
Speaking about her experience with the team, Paternoster expressed her gratitude:
“In this team there are really special people, and they trusted me from the first moment. I feel like I can enjoy what I am doing, and I really like how the team works. We can feel like real professionals like the men, because we have the same things, this really important for us, it is amazing.”
She added that 2024 gave her the confidence she needed to push on. “This season gave me a lot of power for the next years. This year was about experiences and my numbers are improving each day, each month, each year, so I think I can still continue to improve a lot. I would really like to be one of the best riders in the world in the next years and I know the team trusts me.”
Paternoster secured her first win of the year at the Tour of Gatineau, crossing the line in a well-deserved victory after a season of close calls. That victory has only added to the sense that a breakthrough on the WorldTour stage is imminent for the young Italian.
Brent Copeland, Liv AlUla Jayco’s General Manager, commented on the rider’s development, saying: “We’re very happy to have Letizia stay with us. She has really developed the last years and we can see that with her consistency throughout 2024. She is a huge asset to the team on and off the bike, and brings a lot of team spirit to the group.”
Paternoster joined Liv AlUla Jayco in 2023 after balancing her road ambitions with a focus on track racing, including competing at the Olympics. Now, with her contract extending until 2026, she will turn her full attention to the road, aiming for the top step in the world’s biggest races.
Main photo credit: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
