For the seventh time, the world’s most talented young riders came to Poland to compete in the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix. The four-day event showcased everything that youth cycling is known for – unpredictability and intense emotions. The overall classification was won by Austrian rider Marco Schrettl, who spoke in glowing terms about the race. “The organization is incredible. It’s my first time here, and I can honestly say this is one of the best races I’ve ever competed in” he said.
We witnessed four days of thrilling competition during the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix. Talented riders from 23 countries raced through the roads of Poland’s Podkarpacie region. Given the prestige of the race, which is part of the UCI Nations Cup, every rider was determined to show their best. The level of competition was extremely high, and ultimately it was Austria’s Marco Schrettl who claimed the top spot in the general classification.
“I’m incredibly happy to have won the overall classification, but what gives me even more joy is how we performed as a team. It was phenomenal – the squad gave everything they had. The stage was chaotic, with everyone attacking, but we made sure that no serious GC threats got away at the front” commented Schrettl. He also had high praise for the race organizers.
“The organization is amazing. It’s my first time here, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best races I’ve ever done. I hope this result helps me find a team – you don’t win the Nations Cup every day. It’s an incredible feeling to call myself a Nations Cup winner” he added.
Italian rider Edoardo Zamperini was also pleased with his performance, claiming a stage victory while wearing the Italian national champion’s jersey. His triumph was a perfect conclusion to a highly successful race for the Azzurri.
“It was an almost perfect race. We’re leaving with two stage wins, second and third place in the overall standings, and victory in the team classification” he said.
“This win means a lot to me. I didn’t have a good start to the season, but this shows I’m on the right path and gives me motivation for the rest of the year. It’s my first win in the Italian champion’s jersey, and probably my last race in it, so I’m glad I made the most of the chance to show it on the top step of the podium” said Edoardo Zamperini, who also praised the Polish event.
“The organization is excellent – one of the best in the world. They also organize a World Tour-level race, and that says it all” the Italian rider noted.
The 2025 edition of the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix marked the event’s seventh running. There’s good reason why top riders in Podkarpacie dream of signing with top-tier teams – so far, the vast majority of winners of the Polish event have gone on to secure contracts with professional squads.
