Cycling Races 2024

The cycling calendar for 2024 is packed with exciting races. It features historic events and new competitions. Here’s a detailed look at some key races.

Tour de France

The Tour de France remains the pinnacle of road cycling. The 2024 edition will be the 111th running of the race. It starts in Florence, Italy for the first time. The tour runs from June 29 to July 21.

This edition covers a mix of flat, hilly, and mountainous terrains. Expect famous climbs such as Alpe d’Huez and Mont Ventoux. The challenge posed by these legendary peaks attracts top cyclists from around the world.

Giro d’Italia

The Giro d’Italia is another major race. It takes place from May 4 to May 26. The 107th edition starts in Budapest, Hungary. It marks the return to an international start after a few years of local launches.

This race is known for its grueling mountain stages. It includes climbs like the Passo dello Stelvio and Monte Zoncolan. These stages often play a decisive role in the general classification.

Vuelta a España

Spain’s grand tour, the Vuelta a España, runs from August 24 to September 15. The 79th edition promises to be just as challenging as previous years. The race begins in Lisbon, Portugal, signaling an exciting return to international starts.

The Vuelta is famous for its steep and short climbs. Key stages include the ascents of the Alto de l’Angliru and Lagos de Covadonga. These climbs test the endurance and skill of even the best climbers.

Paris-Roubaix

Paris-Roubaix is a one-day race known for its rough terrain. Scheduled for April 7, 2024. Often called The Hell of the North, the race features cobblestone sectors. These cobblestones make it one of the toughest races on the calendar.

The race covers about 257 km from Compiègne to Roubaix. Cyclists must navigate multiple sections of pavé, or cobblestone roads. These sections often decide the outcome of the race due to their difficulty.

Milan-San Remo

Milan-San Remo is the longest one-day race in professional cycling. Taking place on March 24, 2024. The route spans approximately 298 km. The race concludes in San Remo after starting in Milan.

Known as La Classicissima, it is often a sprinter’s race despite the distance. The final kilometers include the Poggio di San Remo climb. This climb has been the launchpad for many famous victories.

Tour of Flanders

The Tour of Flanders is a key race in the cobbled classics. It occurs on April 14, 2024. The race starts in Antwerp and finishes in Oudenaarde.

This race includes numerous challenging climbs. Climbs like the Oude Kwaremont and Paterberg are short but steep. Cobblestone sections add to the difficulty, making it a quintessential classic.

Amstel Gold Race

Amstel Gold Race is a prominent one-day race in the Netherlands. Set for April 21, 2024. The race spans approximately 250 km across Limburg province.

It’s known for its numerous short climbs and winding roads. The Cauberg climb often plays a crucial role in the race outcome. This race is a key indicator of form ahead of other Ardennes classics.

Liège-Bastogne-Liège

Liège-Bastogne-Liège is one of the oldest classics in cycling. Scheduled for April 28, 2024. The race covers about 260 km in the Belgian Ardennes.

It’s known for its tough climbs like the Côte de La Redoute. These climbs typically decide the race’s final outcome. This race is often regarded as one of the toughest one-day races due to its relentless profile.

Critérium du Dauphiné

Critérium du Dauphiné is a key preparation race for the Tour de France. It runs from June 2 to June 9, 2024. Held in Southeastern France, it attracts many top riders.

The race includes a mix of time trials and mountain stages. Notable climbs include the Col de la Madeleine and Mont Ventoux. Performances here often hint at potential Tour de France contenders.

Tour de Suisse

The Tour de Suisse is another crucial race leading up to the Tour de France. Scheduled from June 15 to June 23, 2024. It takes place across Switzerland’s varied terrains.

The race includes several high mountain stages and time trials. Key climbs include passes like Gotthard and Furka. This race is a test of versatility for the riders.

Strade Bianche

Strade Bianche is a unique race with gravel road sectors. Held on March 3, 2024. It starts and finishes in Siena, Italy, and covers about 184 km.

The race includes several sections of “strade bianche” or white gravel roads. These gravel sectors often prove to be decisive. The steep climb to the finish in Siena’s Piazza del Campo adds to the drama.

Tour Down Under

The Tour Down Under starts the UCI World Tour calendar. Scheduled from January 14 to January 21, 2024. Held in and around Adelaide, South Australia.

The race includes several stages that favor sprinters and punchy climbers. The famous Willunga Hill stage is a key highlight. Performances here set the tone for the early part of the season.

Gent-Wevelgem

Gent-Wevelgem is a spring classic in Belgium. Scheduled for March 31, 2024. The race covers about 250 km from Ypres to Wevelgem.

Key points include the wind-swept open landscapes and the cobbled Kemmelberg climb. It’s a challenging race for sprinters and all-rounders alike.