The 120th edition of Il Lombardia, the “Race of the Falling Leaves,” is set to take place on Saturday, October 10, 2026. This prestigious one-day classic will cover 239 kilometers, starting in Bergamo and concluding in Como, traversing the Orobic Prealps, the Brianza region, and the Triangolo Lariano. (bikeitalia.it)
Route Overview:
The race alternates its direction annually between Bergamo and Como; in 2026, it begins in Bergamo. The official start is scheduled for 11:00 AM in Piazza Matteotti, with the finish line on Lungo Lario Trento in Como expected between 4:40 PM and 5:20 PM, depending on the average speed. The total elevation gain exceeds 4,600 meters. (bikeitalia.it)
Key Climbs:
- Selvino: Approximately 11 km at a consistent gradient, reaching an elevation of 947 meters.
- Valpiana: A 6.4 km ascent culminating at 989 meters, marking the highest point of the race.
- Colle Brianza (Giovenzana): A challenging climb at 670 meters.
- Madonna del Ghisallo: An iconic 8.6 km climb with gradients up to 14%, leading to the sanctuary at 758 meters.
- San Fermo della Battaglia (1st ascent): A 2.7 km climb averaging 7%, with sections reaching 10%, at 397 meters.
- Civiglio: A 4.2 km ascent averaging 9.7%, peaking at 613 meters.
- San Fermo della Battaglia (2nd ascent): The final 2.7 km climb, similar in gradient to the first, at 397 meters.
Race Dynamics:
The absence of Tadej Pogačar, who has secured five consecutive victories, opens the field to new contenders. Remco Evenepoel, the reigning European champion, is a strong favorite, having finished second in the previous two editions. Isaac Del Toro, now leading UAE Emirates XRG, and Paul Seixas of Decathlon are also notable contenders. Italian riders like Giulio Ciccone, silver medalist at the European Championships, and Davide Piganzoli, fresh off a Giro dell’Emilia victory, are poised to make significant impacts. (bikeitalia.it)
Broadcast Information:
The race will be broadcast live for the sixth consecutive year. In the United States, viewers can watch the event on HBO Max. The coverage will begin at 10:30 AM and continue until 5:15 PM. For those interested in the pre-race atmosphere, the team presentations will take place on Friday, October 9, at 5:00 PM in Bergamo’s Sentierone. (bikeitalia.it)
Spectator Information:
Il Lombardia offers unique opportunities for fans to experience the race firsthand. Spectators can follow the race by cycling along the route, with key points such as the Madonna del Ghisallo and the Civiglio climb providing excellent viewing spots. It’s advisable to arrive early, as roads close ahead of the race’s passage. For those in Bergamo, the team presentations on October 9 offer a chance to see the riders up close. (bikeitalia.it)
For more detailed information and updates, visit the official Il Lombardia website.