João Almeida and Remco Evenepoel will be in action this weekend at the Italian one-day race.
It’s one of the oldest events on the Italian scene, created in 1909, the year that saw also the Giro d’Italia come to life. In was won by some of cycling’s biggest names, from Costante Girardengo and Fausto Coppi to Eddy Merckx and Francesco Moser. This year, it will run its 104th edition, and the winner is expected to emerge again on the double-digit gradients of the San Luca, the short but gruelling hill lying just outside of Bologna.
Back to its regular October slot after taking place in early August last year, the 195.3km Giro dell’Emilia will feature five ascents of its emblematic climb, where João Almeida came agonizingly close to what would have been his maiden pro victory in 2020, when he was caught and dropped less than 300 meters from the line after almost 20 kilometers alone at the front.
The first Portuguese in 35 years to podium at the race, Almeida will be back at the start, part of a strong Deceuninck – Quick-Step team that will include also Andrea Bagioli, Dries Devenyns, World ITT Championships bronze medalist Remco Evenepoel, Fausto Masnada, Pieter Serry and Mauri Vansevenant.
“Last year we had two riders in the top 5 and we hope to be again in the mix this Saturday, especially as we go there with a solid and very motivated team, comprising both young and experienced riders. It’s an important race ahead of Il Lombardia, the season’s final Monument, and we’ll tackle it with a lot of confidence”, said Deceuninck – Quick-Step sports director Davide Bramati.
Pieter Serry 
Fausto Masnada