Bahrain Victorious is set for the first Monumental Classic of the season, Milano-Sanremo, scheduled on Saturday, 16th March. This year, the race begins with a new start in Pavia, concluding after 288km in the iconic Ligurian town.
The only alteration to the historical course occurs in the first part, which then merges with the classic route after 44km, from Lombardia to Liguria, climbing the Passo del Turchino, hugging the coastline for a picturesque journey that unfolds with the traditional sequence of the Capi (Mele, Cervo and Berta), and the two legendary climbs the Cipressa and the Poggio beginning with 9 km to go.
The twisty and technical descent from the summit, a pivotal moment in the outcome of the race, played a crucial role in Matej Mohorič’s extraordinary victory in 2022. The Slovenian Champion, etched his name in history with a strategic attack and a masterful use of equipment, clinching victory in a thrilling downhill finish on Via Roma, which remains the race’s traditional endpoint this year too.
Once again, Slovenian ace Matej Mohorič will lead the Bahrain Victorious team at the 115th edition, aiming for another day of glory on the Italian roads: “Coming back to Milano-Sanremo is always a special emotion for me. I have been feeling very good so far this season, and I am really looking forward to the race this year. I believe I have a chance to win, and I will grab the opportunity if it comes my way. I will once again have great support from my teammates this year. We will need to be really patient and wait for the right moment to go on Saturday.”
“You need a perfect day to win the unpredictable Milano-Sanremo, but you also need the legs”, TBV Sports Director Franco Pellizotti explains. “Last year, our boys showcased impressive teamwork on the Poggio for our leader, securing an 8th place finish. I hope to see this kind of team spirit and commitment again, and, of course, we aim for success with Matej. Considering the contenders, our goal is at least a podium spot, though a top-ten result is commendable in a Monument. I anticipate a rider like Fred Wright to make a mark sooner or later. He is in good shape and will be prepared for any sprinting opportunities in the finale”.
Highlighting the crucial role in the race, Pellizotti adds, “I’m convinced that taking the Cipressa in the top position is fundamental. Our riders, especially the young debutants Nicolò Buratti, Matevz Govekar, and Fran Miholjevic, will work to perform this task. The experience of our road captain, Nikias Arndt, and Andrea Pasqualon, will also be essential to provide support after the Cipressa and ensure optimal positioning before the Poggio. Milano-Sanremo may seem straightforward in strategy, but its unpredictability makes it one of the most difficult races to win.”
