Appenninica MTB Stage Race: forging a winning alliance between sport and territory

A sporting event’s growth is measured not only by participation numbers or the technical level of the competition, but also by its companions along the way. This year, once again, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race will line up in Bologna for the start of the 2024 edition (September 2-7) with a strong team of partners. This includes a mix of premium national and international brands alongside local excellence from the Emilia-Romagna region, showcasing a grand alliance that certifies and rewards the work of ASD Happy Trail MTB, led by Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno.

The connection with the Emilia-Romagna Region remains crucial, as Appenninica MTB Stage Race offers an opportunity to promote the Apennines as a premier tourist destination for cycling, not only on the road but also for mountain biking. This project is also part of a broader plan to combat depopulation in these mountainous areas.

In the cycling sector, two long-standing partners stand out: 9th Wave Cycling, a Dutch company producing high-performance wheels, which has supported the project from the outset, and Barbieri PNK, a Bologna-based brand specialising in bike accessories and spare parts.

Prestigious international sponsors from the cycling world have also answered the call. Enervit, an Italian leader in sports nutrition and functional foods, will be the Sports Nutrition Partner of Appenninica. Additionally, the French brand Look, the official pedal of the event, and the bike lubricant manufacturer Squirt Cycling will also be key partners.

Appenninica MTB Stage Race also showcases Italian brands deeply rooted in the race’s territory, such as My Bike, a Meliconi group brand that applies the famous Italian company’s technology to create bike accessories and supports. The leader jerseys will be provided by Natali Sports Wear.

Among the main partners of Appenninica MTB Stage Race is Lavor, which will offer the Bike Wash service during the race. Lavor is part of the Comet Group and is a world leader in the production of cleaning and maintenance machinery.

Throughout the race week, Official Suppliers—excellent brands that will accompany the caravan—will play a vital role in making the experience even more unforgettable. The official hydration water will be provided by Gruppo Sem, one of Italy’s leading bottling operators, while Iren will ensure bikers can refill their water bottles. Thanks to Coop Alleanza 3.0, organic products from the Vivi Verde range will be available at refreshment points along the route and at the finish line.

In a region renowned worldwide for its food and wine excellence, cured meats and cheeses will be supplied by Grandi Salumifici Italiani, and the pasta from Delverde will be dressed with Rodolfi tomato sauce—two new and important partners, both from Emilia-Romagna. Cabrioni Biscotti, another partner from Emilia, is also joining the Appenninica MTB Stage Race starting this year.

As in recent years, mechanical assistance will be provided by the expertise and precision of Sport Bike Alicante, while Hibros will supply pre- and post-race muscle care products.

Radio Bruno, the Official Radio Partner, will be on hand throughout the week with the best summer hits, providing entertainment. Official Live Tracking will be managed by SeTe Track, providing an essential tool to follow the stage live and ensure the safety of the athletes, while Endu has handled the registration process, and Evodata will be responsible for timing and classifications.

The excitement continues with the return of the Appenninica Teen Camp project, which will immerse a group of young people and teenagers in the heart of the race operations. Decathlon will sponsor the project, providing tents, sleeping mats, and essential camping gear.

Hans Becking targets Appenninica four-peat

The Dutch rider will defend his Appenninica MTB Stage Race title from June 23-27, seeking his fourth straight win after achieving the title three times previously. The Buff-Megamo Team rider faces a thrilling showdown with 2022 winner Diego Arias

From the Giro d’Italia to Appenninica’s grand finale: a landmark 2025 for Castelnovo ne’ Monti

Nestled at the foot of the iconic Bismantova Rock, Castelnovo ne’ Monti is set for a standout summer in 2025, hosting the final two stages of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race and a Giro d’Italia finish on May 21. A thrilling calendar of sporting events lies ahead.

Riders Bulletin n.2/2025

Riders bulletin n.2 May 16, 2025    If you’ve received this email, you are probably registered for the VII edition of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, which will be held from June 23rd to June 27th. We are 37 days out.   This is the second rider...

Appenninica MTB Stage Race discovers Riolunato

The Modena province town makes its debut in the Italian mountain bike stage race running June 23–27, hosting both a finish and a start

Appenninica challenge returns to Lizzano in Belvedere

The Bologna Province town will host the start of the 2025 Appenninica MTB Stage Race after serving as the grand finale venue in previous editions

From Cape Epic to Appenninica: Karl Platt takes on a new challenge

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Metallurgica Veneta MTB Pro Team and Diego Arias set for Appenninica 2025 return

After their 2023 appearance, the team led by Martino Tronconi is heading back to the Appenninica MTB Stage Race. 2022 champion Diego Arias Cuervo will spearhead their campaign during the June 23-27 event, backed by teammates Jacopo Billi, Massimo Rosa, and Andrea Candeago

Appenninica MTB Stage Race unveils charming 2025 route

Five stages, 320 km, and 12,200 meters of elevation gain through the Emilia-Romagna Apennines characterize the new edition of the Italian MTB Stage Race

Appenninica MTB Stage Race moves to June with new five-stage format

The mountain bike stage race through the Emilia-Romagna Apennines will run from June 23-27, featuring a compact five-day program. Registration opens Sunday, December 1

Appenninica MTB Stage Race to release six-part short documentary series

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Becking and Brenn win Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2024

The sixth and final stage around Castelnovo ne’ Monti saw Dutch and Swiss riders cement their leadership, while Italian Luca Cacchi clinched the stage victory. “We love the idea that many riders see Appenninica as an adventure, and they come back year after year.”

Becking and Brenn edge closer to Appenninica glory in Mountain Queen Stage

The Dutch and Swiss riders confirmed their leadership in the General Classifications of Appenninica MTB Stage Race. Tomorrow, September 7th, the final stage features a loop around Castelnovo ne’ Monti