San Martino San Rocco wins the 2026 Palio di Asti

Dino Pes, known as ‘Velluto’, riding Excalibur, secured victory for the San Martino San Rocco district in the 2026 Palio di Asti. This win marks the district's first triumph in the event in fourteen years, with their previous victory occurring in 2012.

The race in Piazza Alfieri was marked by several false starts and dramatic shifts in momentum. After two false starts, the third attempt proceeded with intense competition. While San Lazzaro held an early lead, the race saw several falls, including those of riders Carlo Sanna and Federico Arri. These incidents allowed Dino Pes to find an opening and surge ahead to claim the Drappo.

Other notable regional events include the Palio delle Contrade di Vighizzolo, won by Contrada Bassa, and the Palio del Vecchio Mercato di Montebelluna, where the Centro Pieve district set a new historical record time of 8’52″66 in the men's race.