Anticipation reaches a peak as Milan-San Remo kicks off the cycling season on March 22, 2025, marking a significant moment not just for male riders but for female cyclists as well. The men's race continues its longstanding tradition as a one-day classic and the first of five Monuments—iconic races revered in cycling history. Meanwhile, this year's event celebrates the return of the women’s race, Milan-San Remo Donne, after a 20-year hiatus.<\/p>
The men's course stretches across 289 kilometers, starting in Pavia, just south of Milan, and flows to San Remo along the scenic Ligurian coast. Riders must tackle the challenging Turchino Pass and negotiate critical climbs including the Cipressa and the Poggio—key spots in the race strategy that are notorious for stirring the peloton into action.
Among the top contenders this year are Tadej Pogačar from UAE Team Emirates, the reigning world champion and a formidable force in the cycling realm. Following him are Dutch cycling star Mathieu van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen, last year’s winner, both representing Alpecin-Deceuninck. They head into the race with considerable momentum, particularly after recent successes in other competitions like Paris-Nice and Tirreno-Adriatico, as they attempt to seize victory in this prestigious event.
"I'm really looking forward to start tomorrow and we are ready to fight for the victory," Pogačar stated, emphasizing his focus on executing a perfect strategy for the race. He added, "The more trainings on the parcours, the better," showcasing his competitive spirit and meticulous preparation.<\/p>
With Pogačar as a favorite, Van der Poel aims to replicate his previous success, aiming for tactical teamwork with Philipsen, emphasizing collaboration, and ensuring communication during the race, which is crucial given the evolving dynamics in cycling.
For the women’s race, the course is slightly shorter at 156 kilometers, beginning in Genoa and following portions of the men’s route. Top riders include Lotte Kopecky, the reigning world champion, and her fierce rival Demi Vollering from FDJ-Suez. With both athletes marked as favorites, the competition promises to be intense, involving strategic climbs through the same challenging ascents that have defined the men’s race.
Women racers like Elisa Balsamo, an emerging talent after winning the Trofeo Alfredo Binda, will bring excitement as they contend for the historic title. The return of the women’s race has already sparked palpable enthusiasm in the cycling community with high expectations set for this class.
The anticipated clashes on the climbs and the furious sprints towards the finish are what keep fans on edge. As the race progresses, viewers will notice the strategies unfold on climbs like the Cipressa and the Poggio. The Poggio, particularly, offers a chance for tactical decisions that can make or break a rider’s success. Last year's thrilling finish, where Philipsen narrowly claimed victory, ensured that all eyes are once again glued to this critical ascent.
Coverage of both races will be available on various platforms, particularly through FloBikes starting from 5:05 a.m. EDT for the men's edition followed by the women's at 7:30 a.m. EDT. This accessibility enhances viewer engagement worldwide, ushering in many fans eager to witness cycling's grand feast unfold.
With the excitement building, fans eagerly await to see if a surprise winner might emerge, as Milan-San Remo has witnessed unexpected turnarounds in history. This race has consistently produced diverse winners, confirming its exceptional standing in cycling culture.
As for our Canadian hopefuls, Nickolas Zukowsky is set to represent the men's squad, while Olivia Baril, Sarah van Dam, Simone Boilard, Magdéleine Vallières, and Alison Jackson will compete in the women's race, rising to this historical occasion with aspirations of glory on the iconic Via Roma finish line.
The countdown to both races draws near, and all participants seem poised for a spectacular show of athletic resilience and tactical proficiency. Each rider is not fully alone; their teams rally behind them, influencing strategy as this significant one-day classic approaches its conclusion.
The chance to witness heroes emerge and see history written anew has cycling fans on the edge of their seats. For both men and women, the battles set to unfold promise unmatched excitement and tales that could define careers.
