Inaugural Ħaż-Żebbuġ cycling race kicks off season with resounding success

The town of Ħaż-Żebbuġ roared to life last Sunday as it hosted the inaugural Żebbuġ Cycling Race, launching the 2025 Maltese road cycling season in thrilling fashion.

With perfect spring weather, a great turn-out, and a full morning of high-speed racing, the event has been widely declared a complete success.

Backed by title sponsor Würth, and expertly organized by Team Greens in collaboration with the Ħaż-Żebbuġ Local Council, the race delivered non-stop action across all categories – from elite riders to juniors – with challenging courses winding through the rural countryside of Ħaż-Żebbuġ.

The Men’s Elite Race was nothing short of electrifying, as record speeds were set on the technical circuit.

The peloton was aggressive from the gun, with several early attacks keeping the pace relentless.

The decisive moment came with five laps to go, when Jacob Schembri of Bike It Up Racing launched a daring solo attack.

Despite heavy pressure from the chasers, he held off the peloton to claim victory with an 18-second lead.

Teammate Pierre Borg finished second, sealing a dominant performance for Bike It Up Racing.

Veteran Etienne Bonello of Team Greens secured third with a trademark strong finish, capping a thrilling elite race

The Masters Race was just as fast-paced and fiercely contested, with Team Greens asserting full control by locking out the top four positions on the results sheet.

Gesred Borg claimed his first-ever road race win, showcasing smart racing and tactical strength. He was followed closely by Arek Kawalec, Nick Schembri, and Joaquin Rojas – all flying the Team Greens flag in a commanding display of depth and dominance in the veteran category.

Women’s Race Comes Down to the Wire

The Women’s Race delivered one of the day’s tightest finishes. Diana Muscat (Team Greens) and Deborah Schembri (Team David) battled it out wheel-to-wheel in a dramatic two-up sprint after a closely contested race.

Muscat edged ahead in the final metres to take the win. Michelle Vella Wood, also of Team Greens, completed the podium with a strong ride to third.