There is no time to stand still in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines – or at ASD Happy Trail MTB. Barely days after wrapping up one of the most successful editions in the event’s history, preparations are already well underway for the ninth edition of Appenninica MTB Stage Race, which will take place from Tuesday, June 22 to Saturday, June 26, 2027.
The first scheduling innovation positions the race from Tuesday through Saturday, a change designed to simplify participants’ travel plans, particularly by making transfers on Monday easier to manage. It is another example of the organisation’s ongoing commitment to improving the rider experience.
The race to succeed 2026 champions Vincenzo Saitta and Greete Steinburg will once again unfold over five stages during the final week of June. Host venues and routes will be revealed in the coming months, with ASD Happy Trail MTB already working on several new features and surprises for next year’s edition.
“The 2026 edition ranks among the most accomplished in Appenninica’s history,” said organisers Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno. “The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many already expressing their desire to return next year. Despite the exceptionally hot weather, the organisation performed at its very best, allowing all 188 riders to enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Emilia-Romagna, the welcoming atmosphere created by our staff, and the unique sense of community that defines the Appenninica family. We are already working on further improvements to make the experience even better in 2027.”
Registration for the 2027 edition opens tomorrow, Thursday, July 2, with the Flash Early Bird phase. Forty entries will be available at the special rate of €1,050 for riders wishing to secure their place as early as possible.
From July 20 – or once the first 40 entries have sold out – registration will move to the Early Bird phase, which will remain open until December 31, 2026, or until a further 40 places have been allocated. Riders who joined the 2027 waiting list after this year’s race sold out will have priority to confirm their registration by no later than July 20, 2026.
Appenninica MTB Stage Race is a full-service event. Entry includes not only the race registration but also accommodation, feed stations and meals, medical assistance, bike washing, stage transfers and a wide range of rider services designed to deliver a premium stage-race experience. Full details are available at appenninica-mtb.com.
Responding to strong demand from previous editions, the organisation has set a maximum field of 175 riders for 2027. The decision is aimed at preserving the quality of the experience on the trails, avoiding overcrowding and maintaining the high standards that have become a hallmark of Appenninica MTB Stage Race.