Milano-Torino 2026: The Grand Old Race Turns 150 and Revs Us Up for the Winter Olympics
What a thrill, folks! Today, March 18th, 2026, the pedals start turning for Milano-Torino, the world's oldest classic race, celebrating a magnificent 150 years. And it's more than just a race: it's the perfect prelude to another historic event set to ignite Italy this year: the XXV Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina. Two great sports capitals, Milan and Turin, are once again in dialogue, this time connecting the asphalt and the snow.
A Star-Studded Rollout for the 150th Anniversary
Today's race is no simple sprint. It's a grand rollout, a tribute from the world of cycling to Italy. Starting in Milan and finishing in Turin, the course is one that will have the sprinters battling hard right down to the final metre. Among the big names expected, all eyes will be on Primož Roglič, who's looking to make his mark here, and our own local hero Tom Pidcock, a rider who can excel on any terrain. Word from the corridors of the cycling federation is he's been studying the Piedmont climbs for weeks. Then there are the young talents: from Pellizzari to Johannessen, all ready to battle for glory in one of the most prestigious races on the calendar.
Road Closures & Timings: How to Catch the Race Live
For those wanting to soak up the festival atmosphere, keep an eye on the travel situation. The race caravan will pass through several towns, bringing road closures and diversions. Local transport operators have already reorganised routes to try and avoid total chaos. My advice? Find a good vantage point on the Turin hills and just enjoy the spectacle. Here are the key moments you won't want to miss:
- Start: Milan, 11:00 AM. The official start under the Arco della Pace.
- Passage through the Langhe: Around 2:30 PM, where the race really starts to heat up among the hazelnut groves.
- Finish in Turin: Expected around 4:45 PM, with the finish line in the city centre in front of what promises to be a massive crowd.
From Two Wheels to Five Rings: Milan and Turin as Sports Capitals
But 2026 is the year of the Olympics, and this Milano-Torino race is the perfect advert for it. As the riders speed by, Milan and Turin are busy preparing to welcome athletes and spectators from across the globe for the Winter Games. It's a unique chance to discover the region, which isn't just about tarmac, but also ski slopes, breathtaking scenery, and hospitality that's second to none.
And if you're already planning a trip for the Olympics or even the Giro d'Italia, give some thought to where you'll stay. Imagine coming back after a day of racing or skiing to a comfortable, family-friendly apartment with a terrace, pool, and garden. Total relaxation, away from the hustle but still close to all the action. Whether you're based in Milan or Turin, places like that can turn a sports trip into an unforgettable memory.
The Future is Now: Onwards to Milano-Cortina 2026
This Milano-Torino is just the warm-up. From February 6th to 22nd, 2026, Italy will be the centre of the universe with the Winter Olympics. And for fans of Paralympic sport, keep an eye on the Winter Paralympics 2026: those who follow the scene closely reckon this edition will see a record number of athletes taking part. The road to Milano-Cortina is already mapped out, and today we're travelling it by bike. Soon, it'll be on skis and sledges. What a show, Ireland!