Alex MacQuoid
The countdown is almost over – Giro d’Italia 2025 kicks off this Friday, May 9, with a spectacular Grande Partenza in Albania. And with the anticipation building, Movistar Team has revealed a bold and surprise-filled lineup that signals clear intent: stage wins and a strong GC finish.
Rubio Leads, Quintana Supports — GC Ambitions Defined
Einer Rubio steps into the spotlight as Movistar’s leading hope for the maglia rosa. The Colombian climber, whose consistency continues to improve, is backed by none other than Nairo Quintana — the veteran who’ll be eyeing selective stage glory of his own, mirroring his 2024 role.
This strategic dual threat blends GC ambition with tactical versatility – a potential masterstroke in this year’s Corsa Rosa.
Gaviria Out, Versatility In
The biggest headline? Fernando Gaviria is out. The decision, while rumored, is now official. In his place, Movistar opts for a squad geared toward aggressive, all-terrain racing. Sprinter-focused stages may now fall to the explosive Orluis Aular, with power-climbers Jefferson Cepeda and Jon Barrenetxea chasing mountain breakaways and puncheur opportunities.
Local Stars & Surprising Picks
Lorenzo Milesi and Davide Formolo – both Italian – bring local fire and recent form, especially Formolo, who impressed at Flèche Wallonne and Amstel Gold Race. Their presence will energize fans along Italian roads.
Then comes the wildcard: Albert Torres. Despite abandoning all four of his 2025 races so far, his selection is rooted in experience — he’s featured in four of the last five Giros. Could this be a veteran’s redemption arc?
Final Movistar Team Roster – Giro d’Italia 2025
- Einer Rubio
- Nairo Quintana
- Orluis Aular
- Jefferson Cepeda
- Jon Barrenetxea
- Lorenzo Milesi
- Davide Formolo
- Albert Torres
What This Means for Bettors and Fans
With a lineup that balances GC hope with stage-hunting ambition, Movistar becomes a key team to watch in betting markets. Rubio’s odds for a Top 5 GC finish are likely to tighten after this announcement, while punters should track daily odds for potential breakaway wins by riders like Cepeda or Aular.
Expect fireworks, surprises, and tactical gambits from day one.
Want more insights? Make sure to check out our other posts for more Grio d’Italia 2025 previews:
- Giro d’Italia 2025 Full Preview
- Giro d’Italia 2025 Odds and Favorites
- Where to watch Giro d’Italia 2025
- Giro d’Italia 2025 Route and Stages Preview
And in case you’re looking to bet on this year’s Giro – make sure to take a look on TipsGG selected cycling betting sites!