Bergamo and its climbs: Il Lombardia is back
# The Thrills of Bergamo: Il Lombardia Returns with a Vengeful Course
The 2023 edition of Il Lombardia promises to be an exhilarating spectacle for cycling enthusiasts, with its challenging 238 km course featuring daunting climbs designed to test the limits of even the most seasoned riders.
The race kicks off with the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo, setting the tone for what’s to come. However, it’s the final 145 km that will truly decide the race. Cyclists will face a relentless series of ascents, starting with the Roncola Alta (9.4 km at 6.6% gradient), followed by the Berbenno (6.8 km at 4.6%), the Passo della Crocetta (11 km at 6.2%), and Zambia Alta (9.5 km at 3.5%) before the marquee climb: the Passo di Ganda, a grueling 9.2 km stretch at an average gradient of 7.3%. The summit is reached a mere 32 km before the finish line, leading into a steep descent toward Bergamo.
It was on the formidable Passo di Ganda that Tadej Pogačar secured not only his first victory in this prestigious race in 2021 but also his triumphant return in 2023. Reflecting on his performance, Pogačar lit up the climb in 2021, making a bold move that momentarily left him vulnerable on the descent, where he was caught by local hero Fausto Masnada. Ultimately, Pogačar outran Masnada in the final stretch. Fast forward to 2023, and despite not being in peak condition, Pogačar orchestrated another surprise attack near the summit, allowing him to clinch his third title.
As the riders approach the final stretch in Bergamo, there’s one last challenge: the steep ramp leading to the historic upper town, Largo Colle Aperto. At just one kilometer long, it averages a steep 7.9% gradient, with sections spiking up to 12%, all while the cobblestones rattle beneath their wheels. This harrowing ascent offers one last chance for competitors to jostle for position before the finish line—an opportunity that could flip the race on its head.
Once the dust settles and the victor emerges, it will be time for celebration and reflection on another unforgettable edition of Il Lombardia. As traditions hold, the cyclists will be looking forward to a well-deserved vacation after their battle on the climbs of Bergamo.
