Riders bulletin n.1 2026

by | Mar 31, 2026 | Rider's Bulletin, Rider’s Bulletin (2026)

Riders bulletin n.1 📒March 13, 2026

This is the first rider bulletin. These bulletins will provide useful information, news, and mandatory action reminders.

Basics and Updates:
  • On the website, you can find lots of information, and we add more useful info periodically. The FAQ page is updated with the questions that we get asked the most.
  • What is included in your race entry is listed under What you get.  
  • Extra packages, such as hotels, are listed on the website, and you can book them from the ENDU shop. We close the shop for hotels and other premium packages on March 31st; do not wait.
  • If you have a companion or supporters with you, we offer specific services and packages; click here.
Reminders and To Do:
  • Wait list. Do you know of anyone who could join you? Appenninica is sold out, but you can have them join the wait list.
  • Social media.  Follow our social media channels and use #AppenninicaMTB and #Appenninicafamily on your posts. Thank you!
  • Rules. The race rules are published here. Your acceptance of those rules is implied with your registration.
  • Online registration. We’ll contact you via email if your registration is not complete or if we have questions (check your spam folder). 

    Pre-race hotel options

    The first stage of Appenninica 2026 is Monday, the 22nd. For Sunday, June 21st, you can book the following:

     

    – Shared room for two (twin beds or one double bed; specify). 
    – Private room for one rider*.
    – Shared room (best value; generally a triple room). We can match you to other riders or contact us to indicate your roommates. This item is booked per person and not per room. 

     

    The cost includes all taxes and fees, breakfast, and a fixed menu dinner (drinks are not included). 

     

    *Currently sold out

        Arriving even earlier

        If you are arriving on Saturday, the 20th, or even earlier, and you need assistance, please contact us to discuss your best options. Do not rule out visiting Bologna – the region’s capital – for a day and catching the transfer on Sunday. Write to us to let us know where/how, and when you arrive in the Emilia Romagna/Bologna.

          Arriving and Parking

           

          See you in Vidiciatico, a fraction of Lizzano in Belvedere (the first hosting village) Sunday, June 21st.

          Come to the accreditation desk between 14:00 and 18:30 in Piazza XXVII Settembre here.

           

           

          Parking for accreditation is here. Go to the accreditation area on foot or by bike. Do not drive or attempt to park there. Thank you.

          Transfer – Stage 5 location to start (pre-booked service)

          The transfer from the last hosting town – Castelnovo ne’ Monti – is planned for 13:30 on Sunday the 21st (the drive is about 3 hrs). Long-term Parking and pick-up area: parcheggio Piazzale Collodi 

           

          Please have your bikes assembled – not in the bike bag – and be ready to board at 13:00 at the latest. 

          Transfer – Airport (pre-booked service)

          Transfers from Bologna Marconi Airport (BLQ) is planned for 13:00 on Sunday, the 21st.

           

          If you have not sent your flight schedule with the flight number, please write to segreteria@appenninica-mtb.com. We must have this information (it is not enough that you have booked the transfer). 

           

          The meeting point is at the arrival terminal (ground floor). Exit from the sliding doors and gather to your right. You’ll see a staff member with an Appenninica sign.  

           

          If you arrive by train (or if you are already in town), you can reach the airport via the monorail called Marconi Express. 

           

          Stay tuned for the next bulletin.

          Appenninica 2026 reaches capacity four months ahead

          by | Feb 27, 2026 | Highlights

          With just over four months to go until the opening stage of Appenninica MTB Stage Race, ASD Happy Trail MTB already has a significant achievement to celebrate: the maximum number of participants for the 2026 edition has been reached – and slightly exceeded – officially declaring the race at full capacity.

           Eight years after its debut, Appenninica has firmly established itself among the most respected multi-day MTB stage races on the international calendar – a reputation built season after season and reflected today in a start list featuring riders from across the globe.

           A well-deserved reward for the dedication and relentless commitment of the organizing team led by Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno. Year after year, the organizers have continued to refine the format, introducing new elements and testing innovative solutions to ensure that no two editions are ever identical.

           The race’s international outlook has always been one of its defining strengths, turning the event into a powerful showcase for the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. Following the highly positive feedback received after moving the race to a late-June slot in 2025, the 2026 full capacity further confirms the solidity of that strategic choice.

           In response to exceptional demand, the organizers agreed to slightly increase the originally planned field limit of 150 riders, while fully preserving their commitment to preventing trail overcrowding and maintaining high-quality standards for every athlete on the start line.

           Appenninica MTB Stage Race is a full-service event, including accommodation, feed zones, medical assistance, bike washing, transfers between stages, and a wide range of additional services. The deliberately limited field also contributes to a distinctive atmosphere – one that encourages genuine connections, shared experiences, and the spirit that defines the Appenninica Family. An approach that enhances operational management while making the overall experience even more immersive and memorable.

           “We are extremely proud to announce this milestone with more than four months still to go before the start,” say Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno. “On one hand, it represents tremendous satisfaction and rewards the commitment we have invested over the years in developing Appenninica MTB Stage Race. On the other, it gives us even greater motivation to continue raising the bar and live up to the expectations of the many riders who have chosen to place their trust in us.”

          WAITING LIST NOW OPEN

           For those who had planned to take part in Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2026, a waiting list has now been activated and is available via the official website, www.appenninica-mtb.com. In the event of withdrawals or deferrals to the 2027 edition, riders on the waiting list may be contacted.

          Waiting list

          From Corno alle Scale to Bismantova Rock: the Appenninica 2026 route revealed

          by | Feb 9, 2026 | Highlights, Press Releases, Press Releases (2025)

          With less than six months to go until the start of the 2026 edition of Appenninica MTB Stage Race, organizers A.S.D. Happy Trail MTB have officially unveiled the course for the eighth edition of the multi-day MTB race. From June 22–26, 2026, riders will tackle the ridgeline of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines in a demanding 310 km route with 11,000 meters of elevation gain.

           

          The 2026 edition marks a year of strong continuity for Appenninica. Following the outstanding feedback received after last year’s edition – which introduced the new early-summer calendar slot and the five-stage format – organizers have chosen to maintain the same race villages that hosted Appenninica 2025. The race will once again start from Lizzano in Belvedere, with the middle stages based in Riolunato before the grand finale in Castelnovo ne’ Monti, on a journey crossing the provinces of Bologna, Modena, and Reggio Emilia.

          As already seen last year at the foot of the Bismantova Rock, 2026 will once again see the routes of Appenninica MTB Stage Race and the Giro d’Italia cross paths. One of Appenninica’s iconic climbs, Corno alle Scale, will feature in the Corsa Rosa with a stage finish scheduled for May 17, 2026. Just over a month later, A.S.D. Happy Trail MTB will pay tribute to this milestone with a special stage.

          “The routes of Appenninica MTB Stage Race and the Giro d’Italia are crossing paths once again, and we couldn’t be happier,” say Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno, co-organizers of Appenninica MTB Stage Race. “Corno alle Scale has always been at the heart of our race, and we’re thrilled it can enjoy this additional spotlight. The course will broadly follow the 2025 layout, but there will be new elements, including KOMs and time bonuses, to make the racing even more spectacular.”

          THE STAGES: FIVE DAYS OF PURE RACING

          The action kicks off on Monday, June 22, with a loop stage starting and finishing in Lizzano in Belvedere, in the village of Vidiciatico. The “Monte Pizzo” stage, with its 34 km and 1,600 meters of climbing, immediately introduces some surprises: a fast, flowing course enriched with technical and dynamic sections. A true appetizer for what awaits riders throughout the week.

          Tuesday’s “Corno alle Scale Dressed in Pink” stage on June 23 takes things up a notch. The first 11 km will retrace the paved climb tackled by the Giro d’Italia, passing through Madonna dell’Acero. After a further 3 km of dirt road, riders will reach 1,779 meters of elevation, where the KOM will be set at Scaffaiolo Lake. From here, the route continues into the Modena area before reaching Riolunato, after 56 km and 2,300 meters of climbing.

          Day three, Wednesday, June 24, features a loop stage starting and finishing in Riolunato, covering 52 km with 1,700 meters of elevation gain. The “Appenninica Ridge” is arguably the most scenic stage of the edition, with the climb to Monte Albano and a passage along the border between Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany. Along the way, riders will cross the Via Vandelli and the Giro del Diavolo above San Pellegrino in Alpe.

          Thursday, June 25, brings the feared “Mountain Queen Stage,” the longest day with its punishing 88 km and 3,000 meters of climbing. From Riolunato to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, the route will touch Passo delle Radici, Giovarello, and Lama Lite, before opening up onto the spectacular view of the Bismantova Rock, now a globally recognized symbol of Appenninica MTB Stage Race.

          The grand finale on Friday, June 26, features a loop around Castelnovo ne’ Monti covering 58 km with 1,400 meters of elevation gain. The trails of Monte Ventasso take center stage on a technically demanding course, where mental reserves after five days of racing will matter as much as physical strength. The effort will be rewarded by the unique view of the Bismantova Rock before riders don the coveted finisher’s medal.

          LIMITED SPOTS REMAINING

          Only a few spots remain for the 2026 edition of Appenninica MTB Stage Race. The “Regular Registration” phase will remain open until March 31, 2026 (or until sold out), but there’s no time to hesitate – the race is selling out fast. As in recent editions, Appenninica has chosen to maintain a limited field size to prevent trail overcrowding and ensure all participants receive the highest standard of on-course support.

          Appenninica MTB locks in 2026 dates: five days of racing from June 22nd to 26th

          by | Jul 1, 2025 | Highlights, Press Releases (2025)

          Just days after crossing the final finish line in Porretta Terme, with Diego Arias and Lola Bakker claiming overall victories, the team at ASD Happy Trail MTB is already shifting focus to the 2026 edition. The dates – officially announced during the closing ceremony – confirm Appenninica’s slot on the international MTB calendar.

          Five intense days riding the rugged trails of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines once again left their mark on riders, who praised the mix of scenic beauty, technical challenge, and genuine atmosphere that define the race.

          “The 2025 course earned high marks from every rider on the start list – that’s the strongest validation we could ask for,” said organizers Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno. “These were five days of authentic mountain biking, set against a backdrop of camaraderie, good vibes, and world-class trails. That’s the core of Appenninica, and what we’ll keep building on.”

          Registration for the 2026 edition opens Wednesday, July 2nd, with a limited batch of 40 Early Bird entries available at €990. Once those are claimed, prices will increase.

          True to its full-service approach, Appenninica offers riders more than just race access – entry includes accommodation, meals, feed zones, medical support, daily bike wash, and all stage-to-stage transfers. Complete details are available at https://appenninica-mtb.com/en/register-2/

          As always, the race will be capped at 150 participants – a deliberate decision by organizers to preserve the race’s intimate feel, ensure top-level organization, and protect the region’s pristine trails. Though a solo format, the experience creates a sense of community that goes well beyond the finish line – from the first breakfast to the final dinner, shared moments are part of the Appenninica DNA.

          Arias and Bakker crowned champions of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2025

          by | Jun 27, 2025 | Highlights, Press Releases (2025)

          After 320 kilometers and nearly 12,000 meters of climbing in a sun-scorched week, the 2025 edition of Appenninica MTB Stage Race has found its champions: Diego Arias and Lola Bakker. Arias, racing for Metallurgica Veneta Pro Team, led from start to finish. Bakker, meanwhile, had to chase down American Syd Schulz after a setback in stage two, sealing her win with consistency and resilience. 

          Arias claimed the final Barbieri PNK Blue Jersey, securing his second career Appenninica title after his 2022 triumph. Throughout the week, the Colombian faced relentless pressure from Vincenzo Saitta, backed by teammate Emanuele Spica. The duo from Rolling Bike Team were central protagonists from the opening stage, locked in an ongoing battle with Arias and his team, managed by Martino Tronconi.

          The final showdown came on Friday, June 27th, with the 58 km stage 5 around Castelnovo ne’ Monti (1,600 m elevation gain). Spica, just two seconds behind third-place Andrea Candeago in the GC at the start, executed a decisive ride to claim the stage in 2:30:18 and climb onto the final podium.

          The stage began with aggressive moves from Oscar Pujol and Peter Menghetti, the latter leading solo for nearly 1 hour and 40 minutes before taking a wrong turn and getting reeled in by a quartet: Arias, Candeago, Saitta, and Spica.

          From there, the Rolling Bike duo turned up the pace on the climb to Pietra di Bismantova, distancing Candeago in the fight for third overall. Spica then surged ahead on the final descent, clinching the stage win. Menghetti outsprinted Saitta for second (+42″), followed by Arias and Candeago at +2’27”.

          “I really wanted that third place overall,” said Emanuele Spica. “Vincenzo and I pushed hard on the final climb and made it happen. I’m proud of the stage win – it’s been a fantastic week, full of satisfaction for our team. This is a tough but truly beautiful race. It deserves its reputation.”

          Arias completed the five-stage race in 15:32:25, with Saitta second at +7’34” and Spica rounding out the podium at +21’36”. Candeago (+24’00”) and Massimo Rosa (+45’20”) completed the most Italian-flavored top five in event history.

          “Today I tried to help Andrea Candeago defend his third place, but we couldn’t quite manage it,” said Diego Arias. “It’s been a great week with excellent organization – just like I remembered from 2022. I’m happy to have found my best legs again and to take this win. I hope to return next year to defend the title – maybe against Hans Becking again.”

          SCHULZ WINS THE FINAL STAGE, BAKKER TAKES THE OVERALL

          The duel that animated the women’s race all week saw one last chapter in the final stage. Syd Schulz claimed victory at the foot of Pietra di Bismantova, once again proving faster than Lola Bakker over shorter distances – but the Dutch rider had already done enough to lock in the overall win.

          Schulz completed the stage in 3:19:15, finishing 8’35” ahead of Bakker. The Lavor Pink Jersey was never in doubt after stage four, with Bakker holding a 21’25” lead in the general classification. Fellow Dutchwoman Linda Van Vliet completed the podium, over two and a half hours behind her compatriot.

          “Winning Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2025 is a dream come true,” said an emotional Lola Bakker at the finish. “This year I was strong mentally and physically – I think that made the difference. It’s been a difficult season with injuries, but this victory makes it all worthwhile.”

          CLEAN SWEEPS IN THE OTHER CATEGORIES

          The week also saw dominant runs across the other categories. In the Masters, Oscar Pujol went unbeaten across all stages, finishing over 30 minutes ahead of defending champion Juul Van Loon, with Rob Van der Werf in third.

          In Grand Masters, Mirko Pirazzoli led from start to finish, building a gap of over 40 minutes to Stefan Buri (Switzerland), with Paul Wellicome (UK) third.

          In the Great Grand Masters category, Axel Strauss of Austria was in a league of his own. Piotr Sozanski took second, and Lawrence Westney completed the podium.