This Saturday March 2 is celebrated 18th edition of the classic ‘sterrato’ in Tuscany, starting and ending in Siena. The Strade Bianche 2024 It brings several new features that will make it once again, an exciting event for all cycling fans. Below we will name a few data and curiosity about the Italian race you may not know.
1
Edition 2024: the longest and most difficult in the history of all editions
215km and 15 ‘sterrato’ sections
This year’s edition broke the course distance record, exceeding 200km for the first time in the history of the Strade Bianche. In addition, from having 11 ‘sterrato’ sections in 2023 to having 15 in this edition, with more than 70km that dirt cyclists have to do.
2
Philippe Gibert, the fastest so far
He was the only winner with an average over 49km/h
The Belgian, winner of the 2011 edition, holds the average test speed record. He completed the 190km test with a time of 4:44:26 and an average of 49.079 km/h.
3
Fabian Cancellara, king of the Strade Bianche
The Swiss have their own piece of ‘sterrato’
Cancellara is the most successful Italian racing cyclist with three final victories (2008, 2012 and 2016). In his honor, the section of Monte Sante Marie was named after him.
4
Sourced from the L’Eroica cycle tour
The first official edition was in 2007, but it has earlier origins
The first edition of L’Eroica took place in 1997 and is one of the most famous parades in the world where cyclists participate with old bicycles.
5
Alejandro Valverde, the only Spaniard to climb the podium
Bronze in 2014 and 2015 and silver medal in 2022
The classic ‘sterrato’ was one of the few races in which El Bala was unable to win gold, although he remains worthy of being the only Spaniard to step on the Strade Bianche podium.
6
special trophy
The figurine of an antique bicycle on a white marble base
This is the unique look of the Strade Bianche trophy, one of the distinguishing features of the race.
Source: La Verdad
I’m Robert Maynard, and I am a passionate journalist with experience in sports writing. For the last few years, I have been writing for Today Times Live. My main focus has been on sports-related stories and features. With my strong background in journalism and extensive knowledge of the industry, I am able to provide readers with well-crafted pieces that are both informative and engaging.
