Quotes
Attilio Fontana, President of the Regione Lombardia: “Il Lombardia is a symbol of our land, an event deeply rooted in our history and identity. It is one of the most iconic and prestigious races in the world. A unique and inimitable Monument Classic, eagerly awaited and loved by cycling fans across the globe. Lombardy is, after all, a cradle of world cycling: the great competitions were born here, unforgettable champions raced and established themselves here, and a cycling tradition developed here that is still alive today with extraordinary intensity. Il Lombardia perfectly represents the essence of this tradition: a legendary race that is also a showcase for promoting our region internationally. It is a sporting and cultural heritage that deserves to be further enhanced. Celebrating the 120th edition of Il Lombardia fills me with pride. And, if I may say so, with Lombard pride”.
Paolo Bellino, CEO & General Manager of RCS Sports & Events: “Il Lombardia is one of the most prestigious events on the RCS Sport calendar and celebrating its 120th edition is a source of great pride. We wanted to turn this milestone into a true Great Weekend, with the team presentation in the heart of Bergamo and the Gran Fondo Felice Gimondi, which from this year can count on a globally recognised partner such as MediaWorld, bringing to a close three days that will see not only the best of world cycling on the roads of Il Lombardia, but also the huge community of amateur cyclists. Such a large participation will inevitably have a positive impact on the local area, with significant numbers of visitors not only along the route but also in hotels and other accommodation facilities. A weekend structured in this way involves fans and enthusiasts first and foremost, but also their families, who will have the opportunity to visit the places where, over 120 editions, the legend of Il Lombardia has been written. It is a major event that celebrates its history, while already being ready to write new chapters and celebrate new legends”.
Luca Guercilena, Chief Operating Officer & Cycling Director of RCS Sports & Events: “The 120th edition of Il Lombardia once again offers a historic route rich in identity. From Bergamo to Como, we will pass through some of the iconic locations that have shaped this race’s long history, with the climbs once again playing a starring role. The finale, with the ascents of Civiglio and San Fermo della Battaglia, will preserve the recent tradition of finishes in Como. We expect many of the top riders who will compete in the World Championships on Sunday to take part, in what could almost be described as a rematch of the World Championship battle. We have also introduced the new team presentation at the Sentierone, an important moment for the public aimed at creating an even more direct connection between the champions and the city of Bergamo on the eve of the race”.
Federica Picchi, Undersecretary for Sport and Youth of the Regione Lombardia: “The strength of cycling in Lombardy comes from the combination of three elements: a centuries-old history, demanding climbs and iconic locations. This is what makes a world-class race such as Il Lombardia unique. This year, it starts in Bergamo, crosses the Bergamo valleys and finishes in iconic Como. The Regione Lombardia supports competitions of this level through its Major Sporting Events programme, enhancing a tradition that sees Lombardia as the leading Italian region in terms of clubs affiliated with the Italian Cycling Federation, accounting for 20% of the national total. This figure confirms the central role of the region and the ongoing commitment of the Federation, institutions and sporting organisations”.
Alessandro Rapinese, Mayor of Como: “Il Lombardia has become an integral part of our community and represents the very essence of being Lombard: hard work, respect, passion and a healthy lifestyle, but also the ability to showcase and promote our territory. Como and San Fermo are a central and strategic part of the race route, and we are particularly pleased that the circuit will be tackled twice this year. Il Lombardia is the sporting event we are most attached to and, through magnificent images and high-level international promotion, it brings the beauty of our territory to audiences around the world. As a local administration, we are proud to be part of this great event and would like to thank RCS Sport, the sponsors and everyone who contributes to making it such a special occasion every year”.
Marcella Messina, Councillor for Social Policies, Longevity, Health and Sport of the Municipality of Bergamo: “For Bergamo, it is an honour and a great emotion to host the start of Il Lombardia, which is not only the final Monument Classic of the season, the Classic of the Falling Leaves: it is part of the history of world cycling. Seeing it start this year from Bergamo, from our city, before finishing in Como after more than 230 kilometres and almost 5,000 metres of elevation gain, is recognition of the deep bond between this city and cycling. Bergamo and cycling are one and the same. This is the land of Felice Gimondi, a land of fans, clubs and volunteers who live for cycling all year round. Hosting the start means bringing the world’s greatest champions to the city, millions of television viewers, and generating an extremely important impact on tourism and local businesses. This year the emotion is doubled because, for the first time, the day after the professionals’ race, Bergamo will host the Gran Fondo Gimondi. It is a unique opportunity: on Saturday, the champions; on Sunday, all of us, riding on the same roads, in the name of Felice. A weekend that transforms Bergamo into the capital of cycling. As the Department of Sport, we strongly wanted this double event because sport means promoting the territory, health and community. I invite everyone from Bergamo to experience the roads, take part and cheer. It will be an unforgettable celebration”.
Vittorio Ratto, Deputy General Manager Retail & Digital at Crédit Agricole Italia: “Once again this year, we are proud to support an event of such great significance as Il Lombardia, now in its 120th edition. For Crédit Agricole Italia, cycling is not only an extraordinary sport that celebrates commitment, discipline and resilience, but also a true driver of sustainable, inclusive and long-term development for local communities. Through this partnership, the Group demonstrates its closeness to families and businesses, while reaffirming its commitment to supporting the development of local economies. We want to promote a model of growth that fosters environmental well-being for the benefit of communities, in line with our role as a local and community-focused bank”.
Damiano Cunego: “Il Lombardia is a race that is an important part of my story, and being able to celebrate its 120th edition is particularly special. My three victories (2004, 2007 and 2008) are among my fondest memories. This year will be even more special because I will return to ride on its roads, this time alongside the Gran Fondo participants. It will be great to experience Il Lombardia from a different perspective and once again share these emotions with those who love cycling”.
