The Giro dell’Emilia: A Tough Battle on the San Luca Climb
Andrea Bagioli of Soudal Quick-Step emerges as the leading rider from his team after Fausto Masnada’s daring attack.
Although not part of the World Tour calendar, the Giro dell’Emilia has established itself as a thrilling and highly regarded race, largely due to the inclusion of the iconic San Luca climb. This challenging ascent first captivated cyclists almost seventy years ago, when cycling legend Charly Gaul successfully conquered it during the Corsa Rosa.
Soudal Quick-Step, among the twenty-five participating teams, made their presence known through Fausto Masnada’s early attack on the third ascent of the San Luca. Masnada showcased his skills with an impressive descent, creating a fifteen-second gap from the peloton. However, the chasing group proved too powerful and caught up with him.
The relentless pace set by the front of the peloton steadily whittled down the group with each passing kilometer. As they approached the final climb, only nine riders remained in contention. Ultimately, it was Primoz Roglic of Jumbo-Visma who claimed victory, with Andrea Bagioli finishing as the highest-placed rider from Soudal Quick-Step.
Photo credit: ©Dario Belingheri / Getty Images
