On October 12, the 118th edition of the Tour of Lombardy, also known as the Classic of the Fallen Leaves, will take place. This event marks the end of the cycling season, and its rugged route through the magnificent landscapes of northern Italy makes it an unmissable event.
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THE Tour of Lombardy is one of the five Monuments of cycling, alongside Milan-San Remo, the Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. It is often nicknamed the Dead Leaves Classic because of its date of occurrence, usually the third weekend of October, when the leaves on the trees begin to change color.
Why is the Tour of Lombardy a Monument?
THE Tour of Lombardy is one of the Five Monuments of Cyclingalongside Milan-San Remoof Tour of Flandersof Paris-Roubaixand of Liege-Bastogne-LiegeThis unique status is based on several key criteria which distinguish it in the cycling calendar:
History and tradition : Created in 1905, this classic has stood the test of time while remaining true to its identity. It has seen several generations of champions pass through it and continues to attract the best climbers in the world.
Difficulty of the course : The Giro di Lombardia is renowned for being one of the most demanding races of the season. Its 252 kilometres are dotted with legendary climbs such as the Madonna del Ghisallo or the Colma di Sormano with its terrifying Muro di Sormano, one of the steepest slopes in Europe. These legendary climbs make this event a real test for the riders’ legs and tactics.
A unique autumn setting : Held in October, the race often takes place in uncertain weather conditions, with roads covered in dead leaves, hence its nickname. This romantic and nostalgic atmosphere gives the race a special aura, different from other classics.
A prestigious list of achievements : Many cycling legends have inscribed their names there, from Fausto Coppi to Eddy Merckx, including Bernard Hinault and, more recently, Tadej Pogačar, winner of the last three editions (2021-2023).
The specificities of the 2024 edition
For this 2024 edition, the course remains faithful to tradition while introducing some adjustments to maintain the suspense and the challenge. The race will start at Bergamo and will end at Comoafter 252 grueling kilometers, punctuated by eight climbs, some of which were decisive: Osigio saddle (16 km at 6%), Madonna of Ghisalloa legendary cycling summit with its sanctuary dedicated to riders, Colma di Sormanofamous for its wall with slopes sometimes exceeding 27%, and finally the final climb of San Fermo della Battagliabefore the steep descent towards Lake Como. These legendary slopes promise to cause significant gaps and offer opportunities for spectacular attacks.
Why follow this edition?
A closing moment for the season : THE Tour of Lombardy is the last great classic of the year. The riders see it as a unique opportunity to end their season in style. Unpredictable conditions : Autumn weather conditions add an element of uncertainty that could disrupt the course of the race, with rain, cold or slippery roads influencing strategies. A duel at the top : This year, the biggest names in cycling are expected, with Tadej Pogacar who will be aiming for a fourth consecutive victory, but he will have to face tough opponents like Primoz Roglic Or Remco Evenepoelboth determined to put their names on the list of winners.
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