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.