There will be lots of people at Port Hercule in Monaco on November 24, at the start of the 4th edition of the Backing Monacoa Criterium dedicated to sport and charity to promote the positive values of Cycling, such as sustainable mobility and education. In addition to the already announced presence of the world champion Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team Emirates), levent organized by the association Baking of Matteo Trentin will come together to support the project of many legends and personalities from Formula 1 to tennis, including cycling. We will find alongside Tim Wellens, Elia Viviani, Mads Pedersen, Michael Matthews or even Matej Mohoric old glories of cycling like Nicolas Roche or Thor Head of House, as well as the F1 driver Oliver Bearman and the tennis player Marin Cilic.
Video – Peter Sagan is the defending champion of Beking Monaco
Thor Hushovd: “Delighted to support such a fantastic project”
One of the most passionate supporters is undoubtedly Nicolas Rochewho since his retirement from professional cycling has divided his time between major gravel competitions and international television commentary. He will be joined by his agent Manuel Quinziatowinner of the Italian time trial title in 2016, David Tanner et Thor Head of House2010 world champion in Melbourne.
“I'm really excited to support such a fantastic project which aims to inspire children and bring them closer to cycling“, said Head of household. “Cycling as a sport needs a new generation and, if this initiative encourages more boys and girls to join this wonderful community, then I couldn't be happier. Plus, knowing that part of the money raised will go to a good cause makes this effort even more meaningful. This is a wonderful initiative.”
Peter Sagan: “A message that deserves to be communicated with consistency and determination”
Speaking of world champions, the exceptional Peter Sagan will once again be one of Beking's stars, but this time in an unusual role: he will take the checkered flag at the start of this fourth edition of the race. The Slovak, who has won three consecutive world titles, one Paris-Roubaixand Tour of Flandersthree Gand-Wevelgem and seven green jerseys in the points classification of the Tour de Francestressed the importance of Baking.
“Beking has reached its fourth edition, proving that events like this are exceptional carriers of meaningful social messages. It is admirable how all the athletes involved and the organization itself remain as committed as ever, devoting so much energy, year after year, to such a valuable project. Cycling has given me so much satisfaction, I have made many sacrifices, but I am happy with everything I have done. Today I am proud to be able to inspire new generations and I hope that we will soon reach a time when cycling will be the preferred means of transport in everyday life, while remaining one of the most fascinating sports. It is a message that deserves to be communicated with consistency and determination.”
Oliver Bearman and many motorsport stars at the start
In one of the most spectacular locations for Formula 1 fans, Oliver Bearmanthe 19-year-old driver who races as a substitute for Ferrari et Haas during the 2024 season, will also be present. The young talent will race as a full-time driver in 2025 and his presence at Port Hercule is highly symbolic, representing the desire of the new generation to pursue their dreams. Other notable drivers include Antonio Giovinazzi et Alessandro Pier Guidiwinners of the 24 hours of Le Mans in 2023, Brendon Hartleyquadruple world endurance champion, and Francesco Castellacciwho participates in the world endurance championship with AF Corse.
