Giro dell'Emilia
The Giro dell’Emilia is one of Italy’s oldest cycling classics, first held in 1909 and firmly established on the autumn calendar. The 2025 edition, the 108th in its history, takes place on 4 October and, despite clashing with the European Championships and the absence of some big names, remains a race to look forward to.
The Giro dell’Emilia is one of the oldest cycling classics still running, with 107 editions held as of 2024. First raced in 1909, it has long been a proving ground for the best Italian riders. Early winners included Eberardo Pavesi, while Costante Girardengo set the record with five victories between 1918 and 1925. Fausto Coppi and Gianni Motta added three wins each, reinforcing the race’s status in Italian cycling heritage.
In recent years the event has become a key autumn test before Il Lombardia, attracting world champions and Grand Tour winners. The steep and repeated climb of San Luca, overlooking Bologna, decides the race and rewards explosive climbers. Riders such as Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar have conquered the slopes here, showing the race still carries real weight at the top level.
Classified as a UCI ProSeries 1.Pro race, it mixes deep history with modern prestige, keeping its place as a fixture for riders and fans alike.
Since 2014 the Giro dell’Emilia has also featured a women’s edition.
