Team Bahrain Victorious is set to conclude a week of intense Italian racing with the final ‘monument’ of the year, Il Lombardia, taking place today.
‘Monuments’ in cycling are the most important one-day races together with the UCI road world championships. The 118th edition of this historic event features a revamped course, stretching 255 kilometres with an elevation gain of 4,547 metres.
As tradition dictates, the starting and finishing cities alternate, and for 2024, the route will run from Bergamo to Como.
After departing from Bergamo, riders will immediately face a series of tough climbs in Val Seriana, including the Forcellino di Bianzano and the Selvino climb, which replaces the Passo di Ganda (due to landslides caused by recent heavy rains). This will be followed by the Colle di Berbenno and Valpiana ascents. The peloton will have a brief respite as they approach Lake Como, but after passing Lecco, they’ll encounter the Onno climb and the famous Ghisallo ascent, albeit from the easier side.
The challenges continue with the day’s toughest climb, Colma di Sormano (with gradients reaching 11 per cent), followed by the final ascent of San Fermo della Battaglia (maximum 10 per cent gradient). The race will finish in Viale Felice Cavallotti in Como, rather than the traditional lakeside location, due to the risk of flooding.
Bahrain Victorious sports director Roman Kreuziger outlines the team’s objectives: “Although it’s the last ‘monument’ of the season, our approach will be as focused and committed as if it were the first. It’s crucial that we maintain 100 per cent concentration and effort right until the end of the season. As I’ve emphasised throughout this week, a happy and motivated rider can make all the difference.”
Kreuziger acknowledged a setback: “Unfortunately, a few of our riders, including key members like Antonio Tiberi and Damiano Caruso, have been affected by a stomach bug in recent days. It’s not the ideal preparation for such a demanding race, and this will impact our strategy.
“However, we are prepared to adapt based on how the race unfolds and how the riders feel on the day.”
Bahrain Victorious are aiming to finish the season on a high note in this prestigious and challenging race, before heading to next week’s races in Asia.
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