Tirreno-Adriatico
Tirreno-Adriatico is a UCI WorldTour stage race held each March in Italy, traditionally running from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Adriatic coast. Often called the “Race of the Two Seas”, the event serves as a key preparation race for the spring classics and the Grand Tours. First held in 1966, Tirreno-Adriatico is known for its balanced parcours that usually includes an opening time trial, sprint opportunities and demanding mountain stages, often finishing with the iconic final stage in San Benedetto del Tronto.
When was the first edition of Tirreno-Adriatico?
The first edition of Tirreno-Adriatico was held in 1966. Over the years the race has grown into one of the most important stage races of the spring calendar and is now part of the UCI WorldTour.
The inaugural edition was won by Italian rider Dino Zandegù.
Why is Tirreno-Adriatico called the Race of the Two Seas?
Tirreno-Adriatico is widely known as the “Race of the Two Seas”. The nickname comes from the geography of the race route.
The race traditionally starts near the Tyrrhenian Sea on Italy’s western coast and finishes several days later at the Adriatic Sea on the eastern side of the country. Riders effectively cross the Italian peninsula from one sea to the other, which gave the race its famous nickname.
Who started the Tirreno-Adriatico?
The Tirreno-Adriatico was founded in 1966 by the Lazio based cycling club Forze Sportive Romane. Because the major and most prestigious Italian cycling races at the time were all organized in Northern Italy, the event was originally named Tre Giorni del Sud.
Who has won Tirreno-Adriatico the most times?
The record for most overall victories at Tirreno-Adriatico is shared by two riders.
Belgian cycling legend Roger De Vlaeminck won the race six times between 1972 and 1977, dominating the event during that era.
Italian rider Francesco Moser also won the race six times between 1971 and 1980, making the two riders the most successful competitors in the history of the race.
Looking for a full overview of winners? Check the Tirreno-Adriatico winners page.
Where is Tirreno-Adriatico held?
Tirreno-Adriatico takes place in central Italy and traditionally runs from the Tyrrhenian coast to the Adriatic coast.
The race often starts in regions such as Tuscany or Lazio before crossing the Apennine mountains.
What category race is Tirreno-Adriatico?
Tirreno-Adriatico is part of the UCI WorldTour, the highest level of professional road cycling.
As one of the most important stage races in the early part of the season, it attracts many of the top teams and riders in the world.
What trophy does the winner of Tirreno-Adriatico receive?
The overall winner of Tirreno-Adriatico receives a unique trophy in the shape of Neptune’s trident.
The trident symbolises the sea and reflects the identity of the race as the “Race of the Two Seas”. It is one of the most recognisable trophies in professional cycling.
