The Granfondo Squali is gearing up for another memorable edition, with top-level riders set to enliven this event dedicated to cycling enthusiasts. Among the most popular names is Fabio Aru, the Sardinian former professional beloved by the public, who competed at the highest levels from 2012 to 2021. With prestigious victories such as the 2015 Vuelta a España, the Giro d'Italia (Maglia Rosa), and several stages of the Tour de France, Aru has won over fans with his combative style.
Always committed to the world of cycling, Aru brings his inexhaustible energy to the Granfondo Squali.
For 2026, the former champion already has a busy schedule: "I will definitely participate in a series of sporting events in Italy, Spain, and France. I love hosting events to connect with people, especially those from different cultures. Then there are the school projects with the Fabio Aru Academy in Sardinia, my commitment to training the next generation. It's a youth cycling team that supports kids, from the very young to the junior level. We try to support young people in my area: when I started, I didn't have a team in Sardinia. Essentially, we promote the culture of sport, whose values can shape the next generation in a healthy way. Over the years, we've involved 2,600 children."
A mission that combines sport and social activities, perfectly in line with the spirit of the Granfondo Squali.
A curiosity about his heroes...who was Fabio Aru's favorite champion? "To stay within cycling, definitely Alberto Contador, with whom I had the opportunity to battle for the overall victory in 2015. I've always liked athletes who put on a show. I started cycling between the ages of 10 and 12, inspired by Julien Absalon, the silent master of mountain biking. But, since I also come from other sports, like tennis, for example, I've always admired Nadal and Djokovic."
Speaking about the Granfondo Squali, where he will be among the protagonists again next May, supported by the EKOI brand, which has confirmed its technical partner, the champion had this to say:
"I really enjoyed the enthusiasm that was already palpable in the Shark Arena," the Sardinian champion stated, "the day before the race. I was at the Ekoi stand and there was a huge cheering crowd. There was a fantastic welcome from both the organizers and the cyclists, a highly distinctive feature of the host region. Even pedaling along the route on Sunday, so many fans made me feel their passion for cycling and their affection for me. I will be returning again this year, once again with Ekoi, and I invite everyone to experience this wonderful event. I clearly remember the finish line, which was very engaging: a festive atmosphere and the right atmosphere that emphasized less the race and more the team spirit and pure fun."
Further details on the 2026 edition, routes, and registration are available on the official website.