Riccardo Favretto

Italian flanker Riccardo Favretto embodies the tenacious, hard-working spirit that has come to define his country's back-row stocks. Born on 18 October 2001, Favretto has earned recognition within the Italian national set-up, representing the Azzurri as part of a new generation of forwards. His game is built on a high work rate at the breakdown, a strong defensive presence, and the willingness to disrupt opposition ball that marks out a modern openside. Favretto's primary value lies in the contest at the ruck, where he looks to slow or steal possession and provide his side with defensive stability. Coming through Italian rugby at a time of renewed optimism around the national programme, he is among the players tasked with adding steel and competitiveness to the pack. The demands of international rugby will test his consistency, but his energy and combative instincts give him a clear role. As he accumulates experience at the top level, Favretto has the profile to become a reliable back-row contributor for Italy, a player defined by effort and abrasiveness rather than flash.