Photographs by Chiara Redaschi
Mattia de Marchi has established himself as one of the essential names on the international gravel scene. His track record is significant: victories at Badlands, The Traka (with three wins), a gold medal at the 2023 Gravel Earth Series… But beyond the results, what really defines him is his approach to each challenge. With an attitude that embodies the spirit of gravel, De Marchi has become a role model for those who value “how” and character over the pursuit of victories.
There are numerous examples that illustrate this attitude. At the final of last year's Gravel Earth Series, after completing 180 kilometres in Cardona and facing setbacks such as punctures and mechanical problems, he climbed into a caravan in the middle of the night. From there, almost without resting, he set off for Italy to compete the next day in the national gravel championship. Or when, after winning the Traka 360, he took on the Traka 200 the next day.
Now, in 2025, Mattia de Marchi surprises again with two important announcements. First, he has launched his own event in Italy: The Hills, a race that will take place on March 28 and 29 at Lake Le Bandie and is already generating great excitement. Registration will be open from Friday, November 22. Secondly, he has been selected to join the exclusive group of guests of Life Time Grand Prix, a recognition that underlines his influence in international gravel.
We spoke to Mattia to find out more details and his thoughts. Here is our conversation.
How did The Hills come about and what are your goals for its first edition?
The Hills was born with the main purpose of making the Prosecco hills, an area declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, known through cycling. In the end, the competition is just an excuse, an opportunity to combine the competitive spirit with the enjoyment of riding.
What kind of route can we expect? Would you say it's a tough race?
The route is 170km long with approximately 2,200 metres of elevation gain, passing through hills, castles, paved roads, narrow paths and stunning rivers… It has everything needed to be a great challenge. It has been carefully designed to strike a balance between effort and enjoyment, offering iconic views of places such as Valdobbiadene, Collalto and Susegana. The Hills will appeal to both those who want to test their limits and those who simply want to enjoy the day, explore the area and share the experience.
You are known for your unique understanding of gravel; does The Hills reflect that spirit?
To create The Hills route, I spent the last three months testing and fine-tuning the routes, looking for the perfect flow. We are now working with the institutions to ensure safety, with closed roads and staff at every intersection. I have an excellent team from X-event, who organise large events in Italy.
Why Lake Le Bandie? What makes it so special?
Lake Le Bandie has hosted several competitions, including last year's Gravel World Championship, but I think it can offer much more than just a starting line. Our idea is to create an area with the brands that support us, with spaces to chat, eat, and drink beer. After the race, we also organised a party. We must first thank the Mosole family, owners of Lake Le Bandie, who support and invest in the growth of cycling in all its forms.
The Hills will be part of the Gravel Earth Series from its first edition. What do you think of the GES model compared to the UCI model?
There is a big difference between the two circuits. GES values the community and is inclusive of all types of cyclists, while the UCI is more competitive. There is nothing wrong with that, but I identify more with the GES philosophy, which seeks to break down the barriers between those who compete and those who just want to enjoy the day on the bike. In addition, GES supports the organizers and helps the events grow, ensuring a high level from the beginning.
Gravel is becoming more professional fast, with better prepared aid stations and teams with support riders. Do you think the rules need to be adjusted to maintain fairness?
Yes, at some events like GES there are already clear rules that seek to strike the right balance. For The Hills, I want to offer refreshment that supports even those without personal assistance.
You have won three editions of The Traka, and in the last one you faced a really strong peloton, despite a mechanical problem when you were leading. This shows your strength over long distances. How do you train for that? How many hours a week do you dedicate to training? Any inspirational advice?
It is essential to have great mental strength; races like The Traka or Unbound are not won by training long distances continuously, it would be exhausting. There is not much difference in my training for long or short distances. The key is to plan and be clear about what you will face. And most importantly: to have the will to do it!
Many iconic gravel figures, like yourself or Morton, seem to lead a more free-spirited lifestyle, far removed from the extreme sacrifice associated with cycling. Is that true? Do you follow any strict routines in terms of training or diet?
I'll be honest, as always: behind those results there is a lot of work and sacrifice that you can't see. I always try to balance sacrifice and enjoyment. I promised myself, when I left road cycling, that I would enjoy cycling and not let it become an obsession again. That's probably the key to keep me competitive!
What are your expectations for the Life Time Grand Prix? How do you plan to approach this experience? What is your relationship with MTB?
I want to do my best and be competitive in all Life Time competitions. As for MTB, I have been studying a lot of videos from Leadville and other American MTB races, and I have planned specific sessions to improve my skills.
Do you have any pre-race protocol?
There is no protocol! I eat a lot of pasta, and a good plate of tuna is always a must, whether for lunch or dinner.
What is your plan for 2025?
I want to get more involved with the community, and I hope that my biggest contribution will be The Hills. After that, I will do fewer races, but all at the highest level. I hope to be up to the task!
Of all the races you have participated in, which one should no one miss?
THE TRAKA, and hopefully after next year The Hills too.
Is there a race you'd like to run that you haven't done yet?
I would like to return to the Silk Road one day, but it won't be anytime soon. Let me compete in short races a bit more!