Italian rugby clubs prepare for A Elite and Coppa Italia season

The new season of Italian rugby's A Elite and Coppa Italia is set to begin, highlighted by the upcoming match between Valorugby and Viadana at the Zaffanella stadium.

Viadana's sporting director, Ulises Gamboa, stated that the club did not intend to participate in the Coppa Italia but is doing so because they are “obbligati da regolamento” (obligated by regulation). He noted the club will treat the match against Valorugby as a preparation test to trial players.

Regarding roster updates, Viadana has secured the signing of Uruguayan captain and lock Lucas Bianchi, who chose the club over interest from Benetton. The club also signed scrum-half Lorenzo Schiavone from Rugby Rho.

Other clubs in the A Elite league are also preparing for the season: Rovigo remains a title contender with minimal roster changes; Petrarca is entering a new cycle with a focus on young talent; Fiamme Oro is positioned as a playoff candidate; and Rangers Vicenza has bolstered its squad with several quality signings and a new South African coach.