In a thrilling display of cycling prowess, Isaac Del Toro of UAE Team Emirates XRG triumphed in the 2025 Milan-Turin race on March 19, conquering a challenging 177 km course that culminated in a decisive climb to Superga. This victory marks Del Toro's first win of the season and the fourth of his budding career, as he navigated the steep gradients and competitive field with strategic brilliance.
The course, which started in Rho and finished in Turin, featured the notorious ascent up the Basilica di Superga, a grueling 4.9 km stretch with a daunting 9.1% average gradient. Del Toro demonstrated remarkable endurance, breaking away with just 100 meters to go to secure his win.
Throughout the race, UAE Team Emirates executed a plan that underscored their dominance in the event. They orchestrated the race early on, effectively managing the peloton while controlling the breakaway group. The last remaining cyclist from this breakaway was Jonas Rutsch of Intermarché - Wanty, who valiantly held on until the steep slopes of Superga.
As the race heated up, a trio comprising Del Toro, Tobias Johannessen of Uno-X Mobility, and Ben Tulett from Visma Lease a Bike separated itself from the pack as they neared the final kilometer. Del Toro later acknowledged the teamwork that had laid the groundwork for his success: "I'm very happy, the team worked hard for this. It's my first victory of the season, I can't be happier. We had a lot of confidence as a team, I just had to finish the job." His tactical execution paid off handsomely, showcasing both his fitness and strategic acumen.
The importance of this victory resonates well beyond this race. Del Toro’s win serves as a significant confidence boost as the UAE Team Emirates prepares for the upcoming Milan-San Remo, where all eyes will again be on Tadej Pogacar, another star cyclist from the team. Del Toro’s recent form indicates that he too might play a crucial role alongside Pogacar during this iconic race, scheduled for March 22, 2025.
However, the day wasn’t without its challenges. Notably, Michael Woods had to abandon the race after a fall, which highlights the unpredictability and physical toll that such competitions can exact on athletes. Despite the hardships faced by some riders, the spirit of the race remained high, underscored by the thrilling competition in the ascent towards Superga.
This year’s Milan-Turin race continued the tradition of fierce competition, accentuated by the tumultuous conditions both during the race and in the undercurrents of strategic positioning among the teams. Historical data from the past ten races illustrates the growing intensity and evolution of strategies adopted by competing teams to secure victory.
Looking at the finish line, the final moments of the race saw Del Toro’s spectacular attack, a critical moment that decisively shifted the outcome in his favor. The energy displayed by the remaining competitors – Johannessen and Tulett – was palpable, but ultimately, it was Del Toro’s impeccable timing that sealed his victory.
As the race concluded, the top five positions included Del Toro at the front, showcasing not only his skill but also the effectiveness of the UAE Team Emirates' race strategies. The victory reflects the relentless effort of the team and their cohesive strategy, effectively blending individual flair with collective strength.
In summation, Isaac Del Toro’s victory at Milan-Turin is more than just an individual achievement; it stands as a testament to the hard work, strategic planning, and supportive team dynamics that are vital in competitive cycling. As the team gears up for Milan-San Remo, the anticipation builds, spotlighting the potential for further triumphs and showcasing the remarkable talent emerging within cycling today.
