Race of the Falling Earth? Course for Tour of Lombardy officially altered after landslides

Italy continues to be hit hard by the weather. After the cancellation of the Tre Valli Varesine due to heavy rainfall earlier this week, the route for the Tour of Lombardy may also be at risk, as reported by Cicloweb. It has now been confirmed that the route has been adjusted, according to Sporza.

Concerns are focused on the municipality of Gazzaniga, which the riders will pass after forty kilometers. From there, the peloton heads up the climb to Ganda, but this is where the problem lies: the severe weather has caused significant landslides, damaging the road. With parts of the road broken up by this natural disaster, it’s currently impossible for the peloton to pass. The municipality attempted to repair the damage, but there simply wasn’t enough time. As a result, the course will bypass the Ganda Pass, with Passo Selvino as the replacement. This detour is minor, and after 57 kilometers, the riders will rejoin the original route.

But the issues weren’t limited to the climb of Ganda. Landslides have also impacted the descent toward Bracca, leaving debris and fallen trees scattered on the road. Alternatives were considered here as well, though it was challenging: one option involved the climb to Dossena and the descent to San Pellegrino, while the Zambla Pass, included in last year’s route but not this year’s, was also suggested as a possible addition. Ultimately, this seems unnecessary.

Lombardy finale currently unaffected

The organizers are in a tough spot right before the start. For now, there’s no reason to cancel the race, but the situation is far from ideal. The final part of the course, featuring the Colma di Sormano as a major challenge about forty kilometers from the finish, is not currently at risk. However, the finish line location has been moved. Originally set for the Lungo Lario Trento in Como, the finish has been relocated to Viale Felice Cavalotti due to flood concerns, ensuring that riders won’t have to deal with axle-deep water on the home stretch.