Il Lombardia 2023: Showcasing Lombardia’s Cycling Tourism and Cultural Heritage

The Il Lombardia cycling race is set to be a major driver for tourism and cycling tourism in the Lombardia region of Italy. With its 238-kilometer route from Como to Bergamo, the race will not only attract a global audience of 17.5 million viewers but also showcase the rich cultural heritage, landscapes, and food and wine traditions of the region.

Barbara Mazzali, Councillor for Tourism, Territorial Marketing and Fashion at Regione Lombardia, expressed her excitement about the race as a showcase for the region, stating, “Il Lombardia is an exceptional showcase for our Region…A region that is becoming a ‘cult destination’ for both national and international cycle tourism.”

The race comes as part of the “Lombardia Express” project, developed by Regione Lombardia and RCS Sport, which aims to promote the region through digital storytelling and the participation of cycling ambassador Antonio Rossi. The project will highlight the various cycle paths in Lombardia, which stretch over 4,000 kilometers and lead from the mountains to the lakes, offering a diverse range of cultural and culinary experiences.

Il Lombardia is not only a sporting event but also an economic driver for the region. The last edition of the race generated an economic impact of 50 million euros on the territory it crossed. The goal is to continue expanding the range of cycling tourism in Lombardia, including cycle-touring and other experiences on two wheels.

Paolo Bellino, Managing Director at RCS Sport, emphasized the positive impact of cycling on tourism and the places it touches. He stated, “This sport is the perfect driver for tourism, which benefits and promotes all the places it touches.”

The race route for Il Lombardia 2023 has been carefully designed to be tough and selective, with over 4,400 meters of altitude gain. It will feature prominent riders such as Tadej Pogacar, Primoz Roglic, Remco Evenepoel, and former winners Thibaut Pinot and Vincenzo Nibali.

Il Lombardia holds a special place for former winners like Damiano Cunego, who described it as a great goal. Cunego stated, “I have managed to win it three times, entering the history of this race…My favorite for victory is Tadej Pogacar because he is a rider who when he concentrates on a goal always arrives in top condition.”

The race has garnered support from local authorities and institutions, with Alessandro Rapinese, Mayor of Como, expressing his excitement for the event. He stated, “As a Lombard citizen, I can only be happy that the tradition continues and that our institutions, the municipalities and the Region, are working together to make it ever more fascinating and exciting.”

In addition to showcasing the region’s cycling tourism, Il Lombardia also aims to inspire young people to engage with the sport. Lara Magoni, Undersecretary with responsibility for Sport and Youths of Regione Lombardia, highlighted the values of cycling and how it can be a positive example for young people.

Il Lombardia is not only a celebration of cycling but also an opportunity to highlight the beauty and cultural heritage of Lombardia. Loredana Poli, Councilor for Sport of the Municipality of Bergamo, expressed her pride in hosting the race and the opportunity it brings. She stated, “Bergamo has been confirmed as the finish of the race…I want to thank all those who have worked to achieve this important result for our city, as well as RCS for renewing their trust in Bergamo and Como, now a traditional setting for Il Lombardia.”

Sponsorship from companies like Crédit Agricole further enhances the event’s reach and impact. Marco Briata, Head of Private and Digital Marketing at Crédit Agricole, sees Il Lombardia as an opportunity to promote innovation and sustainability, values that align with the company’s strategy.

Il Lombardia 2023 promises to be a thrilling race that not only showcases the prowess of top cyclists but also highlights the beauty and cultural richness of the Lombardia region. With its focus on cycling tourism and engaging the local community, it is an event that brings people together and celebrates the values of perseverance, teamwork, and the joy of the sport.