NAVIGATING ITALY’S CYCLING LANDSCAPE
A Guide to the Nation's Premier Bike Races in 2024
© Gruber Images
Giro D’Italia
No exploration of Italian cycling would be complete without mentioning the Giro d'Italia, one of the most prestigious races on the professional cycling calendar. Since its inaugural edition in 1909, six years after the Tour De France, the Giro has captured the hearts of Italians and cycling enthusiasts worldwide, blending sporting excellence with cultural heritage. The race traverses Italy from north to south, showcasing the country's breathtaking landscapes, historic landmarks, and passionate fans. From the challenging climbs of the Dolomites to the sun-drenched coastlines of Sicily, each stage presents a new test of strength and resilience for the riders vying for the coveted maglia rosa (pink jersey).
Giro d'Italia 2023 | Stage 16 © Giro D'Italia
Giro d’Italia 2023 | Stage 17 © Giro D'Italia
History
The Giro d'Italia, one of cycling's most prestigious and beloved races, has a rich and storied history that dates back to its inception in 1909. Conceived by the Italian sports newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport as a means to boost circulation, the Giro quickly captured the imagination of cycling enthusiasts and became a symbol of national pride in Italy.
The inaugural edition of the Giro d'Italia was organized by Gazzetta dello Sport's editor, Emilio Costamagna, and saw 127 riders embark on a grueling 2,448-kilometer journey across Italy. The race was an instant success, drawing large crowds along the route and generating widespread media coverage. The race has evolved from its original format of primarily individual time trials to include a variety of stage types, including flat stages, mountain stages, and individual and team time trials.
The introduction of the iconic maglia rosa, or pink jersey, worn by the race leader, further added to the Giro's allure. As the Giro d'Italia continues to captivate audiences around the world, its rich history and enduring legacy ensure that it will remain a highlight of the cycling calendar for years to come.
Terrain
The Giro d'Italia is renowned for its challenging terrain, making it traditionally tougher than the Tour de France, especially in terms of climbing. This is largely due to Italy's diverse landscape, offering a plethora of mountains for the race route. Unlike the Tour, which mainly ventures between the Alps and the Pyrenees, the Giro explores various mountain ranges throughout Italy.
From the Alps in the north to the Appennini along the country's spine and even Mount Etna in Sicily down south, the Giro showcases a wide array of challenging climbs. Here, riders face a mix of long, steady climbs and short, punchy ascents, adding another layer of complexity to the race. The unpredictable weather conditions in the Appennini can further intensify the challenge, with riders contending with rain, wind, and even snow at higher elevations.
While some classic climbs make regular appearances, the race organizers often introduce new routes to keep the competition fresh and unpredictable. This constant search for new challenges results in a race that is more erratic and demanding, fostering an environment conducive to exciting and unpredictable riding.
Giro d’Italia 2024 | Tappa 2 © Giro D'Italia
The Giro d'Italia, one of cycling's most prestigious Grand Tours, boasts a rich history filled with notable figures who have left an indelible mark on the race. Among the men, several riders stand out for their exceptional achievements and enduring legacies. Alfredo Binda, Fausto Coppi, and Eddy Merckx hold the record for the most victories, each winning the Giro five times. Binda's dominance spanned from 1925 to 1933, while Coppi secured his wins from 1940 to 1953, and Merckx's reign occurred between 1968 and 1974. These riders not only captured multiple titles but also embodied the spirit of the race with their charisma and determination. Additionally, riders like Felice Gimondi and Bernard Hinault have also left their mark on the Giro with their impressive performances and fierce competitiveness.
In the women's Giro d'Italia, a new wave of cyclists has emerged, upholding a tradition of excellence. Annemiek van Vleuten has dominated recent years with victories in 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023, showcasing her exceptional talent and drive. Her compatriot Anna van der Breggen has also left a significant mark, claiming wins in 2015, 2017, 2020, and 2021, displaying remarkable consistency throughout her career. Their riveting battles have captivated fans and boosted the profile of women's cycling. Marianne Vos, a true icon in women's cycling, has secured victories in 2011, 2012, and 2014, showcasing her versatility across various terrains and disciplines. Her presence on the podium has become synonymous with excellence in the sport. Fabiana Luperini's dominance in the 1990s and 2000s cannot be overstated, as she secured an impressive five victories in 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, and 2008, cementing her status as one of the greatest cyclists of her era. Other notable winners include Nicole Brändli, who triumphed in 2003, 2001, and 2005, showcasing her consistency and strength as a competitor.
Notable Figures
Giro d'Italia 2022 | Stage 17 © Giro D'Italia
Men’s Race
Race Dates
May 4 - May 26, 2024
Distance
3,400.8km or 2,113mi
Total Climbing
44,650m
Stages
21
Start Location
Turin, Italy
Finish Location
Rome, Italy
Edition
107th
Riders
176
Women’s Race
Race Dates
July 7 - July 14, 2024
Distance
856.6km or 532mi
Total Climbing
11,950m
Stages
8
Start Location
Brescia, Italy
Finish Location
L'Aquila, Italy
Edition
35th
Teams
24
Strade Bianche
The Strade Bianche is a distinctive and prestigious one-day cycling race that has rapidly gained prominence since its inception in 2007. Held annually in the scenic region of Tuscany, Italy, the race is celebrated for its unique course that features significant stretches of white gravel roads, or strade bianche, which harken back to the heroic era of cycling. The event culminates in a dramatic and picturesque finish in the historic city of Siena, making it a favorite among both riders and fans. Often referred to as "The Sixth Monument," the Strade Bianche seamlessly blends modern competitive cycling with a deep sense of historical reverence, creating an unforgettable experience in the world of professional cycling.
Strade Bianche Crédit Agricole 2024 © Strade Bianche
Strade Bianche Women Elite Crédit Agricole 2024 © Strade Bianche
History
The history of the Strade Bianche, one of cycling's most unique and celebrated races, began in 2007. Initially named Monte Paschi Eroica, after its main sponsor, the Monte dei Paschi di Siena bank, the race was inspired by the vintage Eroica race, which also takes place on the white gravel roads of Tuscany. The Strade Bianche features a challenging course that spans around 180-200 kilometers, including numerous sectors of gravel roads that add a distinctive and arduous element to the race.
In 2017, it was elevated to the UCI WorldTour calendar, underscoring its importance in the cycling world. The introduction of the women's edition, Strade Bianche Donne, in 2015 further expanded its prestige. The race has been won by notable cyclists such as Michał Kwiatkowski, Tiesj Benoot, and Wout van Aert, while the women's race has seen champions like Lizzie Deignan and Anna van der Breggen. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Strade Bianche has maintained its esteemed status, continuing to captivate the cycling community with its blend of historical charm and modern competitive spirit.
Terrain
The race is renowned for its white gravel roads, which make up a significant portion of the course. These gravel sectors add a challenging and distinctive element, reminiscent of the early days of professional cycling. The race typically covers around 180-200 kilometers, with several sectors of gravel roads (strade bianche) that vary in length and difficulty.
The race finishes in the historic city of Siena, with a spectacular and grueling final climb to the Piazza del Campo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The popularity of the Strade Bianche continues to grow, thanks to its unique combination of challenging gravel sectors, breathtaking scenery, and the dramatic finish in Siena. Often compared to the Spring Classics, the Strade Bianche has earned the nickname "The Sixth Monument," reflecting its significance in the world of cycling. The race's association with the Eroica and its historic roads has given it a special place in modern cycling, blending the sport's rich history with contemporary competition.
Strade Bianche EOLO 2021 © Strade Bianche
Notable Figures
The Strade Bianche bike race, known for its iconic white gravel roads in Tuscany, has seen many notable figures in both the men's and women's competitions. In the men's race, Fabian Cancellara, often dubbed "Spartacus," is a standout figure, having won the event three times (2008, 2012, and 2016). His powerful riding style and mastery of the challenging terrain have left a lasting mark on the race. Julian Alaphilippe, the charismatic French rider, has also made a significant impact, securing victory in 2019 with a thrilling sprint finish. Tadej Pogačar, the young Slovenian prodigy, added his name to the winners' list with a remarkable performance in 2022, showcasing his versatility and strength.
In the women's Strade Bianche, Anna van der Breggen has been a dominant force, winning the race in 2018 and 2020. Her tactical acumen and endurance have been key to her successes on the gravel roads of Tuscany. Annemiek van Vleuten, another Dutch powerhouse, claimed victory in 2019 and 2021, demonstrating her prowess in both climbing and time-trialing. Elisa Longo Borghini, representing Italy, has also made her mark with consistent performances, including a memorable win in 2017. These athletes, with their exceptional skills and memorable performances, have contributed to the growing prestige and excitement of the Strade Bianche in the cycling calendar.
Men’s Race
Women’s Race
Start Location
Siena, Italy
Finish Location
Siena, Italy
Edition
10th
Teams
24
Race Dates
March 2, 2024
Distance
137km or 85mi
Gravel Sectors
12
Stages
1
Race Dates
March 2, 2024
Distance
215km or 133mi
Gravel Sectors
15
Stages
1
Start Location
Siena, Italy
Finish Location
Siena, Italy
Edition
18th
Riders
176
Strade Bianche EOLO 2022 © Strade Bianche
Il Lombardia
The Il Lombardia, often dubbed as the "Race of the Falling Leaves," marks the traditional end of the European cycling season. Held annually in late October or early November, this one-day classic is a culmination of the cycling calendar, drawing the attention of fans and riders alike for over a century. This race serves as a testament to the enduring allure of cycling, with its blend of tradition, challenge, and spectacle. The route typically covers around 240 kilometers, showcasing the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of the Lombardy region in northern Italy. The course is meticulously designed to test the mettle of even the most seasoned riders, featuring a series of iconic climbs and technical descents.
Il Lombardia presented by Crédit Agricole 2023
Il Lombardia presented by Crédit Agricole 2023
History
The Il Lombardia was first held in 1905, making it one of the five Monuments of cycling, along with Milan-San Remo, the Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, and Liege-Bastogne-Liege. Over the years, it has become renowned for its demanding route, stunning scenery, and the caliber of cyclists it attracts. The race has seen various route changes throughout its history, but it typically starts in the city of Como and finishes in Bergamo, taking riders through the picturesque landscapes of the Lombardy region. It's known for its challenging climbs, technical descents, and unpredictable weather conditions, making it a true test of a cyclist's skill, endurance, and tactical acumen.
Terrain
The terrain of the Il Lombardia is characterized by its undulating hills, steep climbs, and twisting descents. Some of the iconic climbs featured in the race include the Madonna del Ghisallo, a revered pilgrimage site for cyclists, the steep Muro di Sormano, and the challenging ascent up to the Santuario di Oropa. Riders must navigate narrow roads, tight hairpin bends, and treacherous descents, adding an extra layer of difficulty to an already demanding race. The race often culminates with a thrilling finale in Bergamo, where riders battle it out on the steep cobbled streets of the old town before crossing the finish line.
Il Lombardia presented by Crédit Agricole 2023
Notable Figures
Over the years, the Il Lombardia has been graced by some of the greatest cyclists in the history of the sport. Names like Fausto Coppi, Eddy Merckx, and Bernard Hinault have all left their mark on the race, with multiple victories to their names. Modern-day champions like Vincenzo Nibali, Philippe Gilbert, and Alejandro Valverde have also added their names to the illustrious list of winners, showcasing their talent and tenacity on the challenging Lombardian roads. In addition to the riders, the race has also been shaped by legendary figures like Alfredo Binda, who dominated the race in the 1920s and 1930s, and Felice Gimondi, who won the race three times during his illustrious career.
Race Dates
October 12, 2024
Distance
288km or 179mi
Total Climbing
Stages
Start Location
Finish Location
Edition
Riders
Il Lombardia presented by Crédit Agricole 2023
Milan-San Remo
The Milan-San Remo is one of the most prestigious and longest one-day races in professional cycling. Held annually in March, this race covers approximately 300 kilometers from Milan to the coastal city of San Remo. As the first of the five Monuments of cycling, it heralds the start of the European cycling season and is a coveted victory for sprinters and classics specialists alike.
Milano-Sanremo presented by EOLO 2021 © Milano-Sanremo
Milano-Sanremo presented by EOLO 2021 © Milano-Sanremo
History
The Milan-San Remo race was first held in 1907 and has grown into one of the most anticipated events on the cycling calendar. Organized by the Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, the race quickly gained prominence due to its challenging length and the diverse mix of participants it attracted. Over the decades, the race has seen various route changes, but its essence remains the same: a test of endurance, strategy, and sprinting prowess. Eddy Merckx, the legendary Belgian cyclist, holds the record for the most wins, with seven victories between 1966 and 1976.
Terrain
The route of the Milan-San Remo is predominantly flat but includes several key features that can significantly impact the race outcome. The most notable of these are the "Capi" (Capo Mele, Capo Cervo, and Capo Berta), the Cipressa climb, and the iconic Poggio di San Remo. The Cipressa, introduced in 1982, is a 5.6-kilometer climb with an average gradient of 4.1%, often serving as a springboard for attacks. The final challenge is the Poggio, a 3.7-kilometer climb with an average gradient of 3.7%, situated just a few kilometers from the finish. Descending from the Poggio, riders face a high-speed, technical descent into San Remo, where sprinters and late attackers vie for victory on the Via Roma.
Milano-Sanremo presented by EOLO 2022 © Milano-Sanremo
Notable Figures
Over the years, many legendary cyclists have left their mark on Milan-San Remo. In addition to Eddy Merckx, Italian sprinter Mario Cipollini is renowned for his four victories (1997, 2002, 2003, 2008). The race has also been a showcase for contemporary talents like Mark Cavendish, who won in 2009 with a dramatic sprint finish. More recently, Julian Alaphilippe claimed victory in 2019 with a powerful attack on the Poggio, while Wout van Aert won in 2020, showcasing his versatility.
Men’s Race
Previous Race Dates
March 16, 2024
Distance
288km or 179mi
Total Climbing
239m
Stages
1
Start Location
Pavia, Italy
Finish Location
Sanremo, Italy
Edition
115th
Riders
Milano-Sanremo presented by EOLO 2021 © Milano-Sanremo