According to the renowned X-profile Cycling Statistics, 18-year-old Philipsen becomes the youngest participant in Strade Bianche's 18-year history as he beats Simone Velasco's record from 2015 by 274 days. The Dane was born just a few months before the first edition in 2007.
Philipsen is currently enjoying his first season as a professional, and Strade Bianche will be his first senior race in Europe.
Expectations are high for the young Dane after he won a number of titles as a junior and became world champion in several disciplines earlier in his career.
In January, the Lidl-Trek rider got his senior debut in Tour Down Under, where he finished fourth on a stage and won the youth jersey. He subsequently took part in a few more one-day races in Australia.
Jakob Fuglsang (Israel-Premier Tech), Michael Valgren (EF), Magnus Cort (Uno-X) Andreas Kron (Uno-X) and Jonas Gregaard (Lotto) are also expected to take part in the race on Saturday.
Tadej Pogacar (UAE Emirates), who triumphed last year after a 50 kilometer solo ride is again the big favorite to win the race.