Australian World Tour team Jayco AlUla has signed Filippo Conca, who was crowned Italian amateur champion, to a contract effective today. The 26-year-old Italian will make the leap from amateur team Swatt Club to the world's top level.
Conca, whose contract runs until the end of 2027, will make his debut in the new Jayco AlUla Italian championship jersey at the Circuit Franco-Belge one-day race on August 15.
Conca made headlines in late June when he beat Italy's top professional cyclists to win the national championship. The surprise win sparked a huge debate about the level of Italian professional cycling, but showed that some riders deserve a second chance. Conca rode for Lotto Soudal and then Q36.5 from 2021 to 2024, joining Swatt Club to salvage his career after a series of injuries and setbacks.
He had originally planned to compete in gravel races in 2025, but then focused on the Italian title, receiving support from Swatt Club coaches, volunteers and members.
"I am very happy to join Team Jayco AlUla. I chose this team because I am sure that I will find the ideal environment here to work hard," said Conca. "Before making the decision, I asked my colleagues and employees for advice and everyone said that in Jayco AlUla I will find a family that supports me both personally and in sports. It is important for me to be able to continue with the same equipment that I have been using this year. My dream is to ride the Giro d'Italia wearing the Italian jersey. I think this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I thank Team Jayco AlUla for their trust - I am sure that I will repay it."
Jayco AlUla has yet to confirm other major signings for 2026, but La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Alessandro Covi (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) and Andrea Vendrame (Decathlon-AG2R) will also join the team.
