When Appenninica MTB Stage Race arrives at Lizzano in Belvedere, it breathes the air of belonging. For years, this settlement at the foot of Corno alle Scale has hosted Italy’s most significant mountain bike stage race. Yet beyond logistical convenience, Lizzano has become something more: a sanctuary for an experience – authentic, familial, celebrated internationally – that renders Appenninica irresistible to those who have tasted it once.

For newcomers and returnees alike, the appeal remains constant: five days of riding, the confrontation with personal limits, friendship between rivals, and immersion in the unspoiled Apennine landscape. Appenninica possesses the rare capacity to transcend mere sporting event and become family. It celebrates a territory where hospitality transcends marketing – it is foundational identity.

From Corno alle Scale to Bismantova Rock, the collective ritual renews itself for the eighth time in the race’s history. Five stages will award elite jerseys across five categories: Men Elite, Women Elite, Master, Gran Master, and Great Grand Master. All carry the same flame in their eyes as they contemplate the journey ahead.

A journey through unspoiled landscapes along the Apennine ridge of Emilia-Romagna, past villages steeped in history, culture, and tradition, and through wild, untamed nature. Whether a first-time competitor or a veteran returning for the umpteenth edition, all carry the same gleam in their eyes – an unmistakable eagerness to depart.

THE MEN’S COMPETITION: BECKING, SÜLZLE, AND ITALIAN AMBITIONS

Perhaps for the first time in Appenninica’s history, Italian competitors arrive with legitimate credentials for overall victory. Yet anyone harbouring such ambitions must contend with the athlete wearing number 1: Hans Becking. The Dutchman has triumphed thrice on these slopes (2020, 2023, 2024) and remains an indomitable force.

Becking arrives in formidable condition. Equally impressive is German Marek Sülzle, fresh from a commanding performance at the HERO Südtirol Dolomites.

Yet the narrative of 2026 belongs to Italy’s rising challenge. The Sicilian duo of Vincenzo Saitta and Emanuele Spica – who finished second and third overall last year – are reinforced by the return of Luca Cacchi, who battled Becking in 2024. Veteran Riccardo Chiarini, third at the 2024 Rally di Sardegna, adds further depth.

Dutchman Bart Classens (runner-up in 2021 and perennial threat), Macky Franklin, and Federico Mandelli possess the capacity to disrupt on any given stage.

THE WOMEN’S RACE: WILL BAKKER AND SCHULZ REPRISE THEIR DUEL?

Last year’s women’s competition between Lola Bakker and Syd Schulz delivered a thrilling narrative of contested supremacy. On paper, 2026 threatens to reprise that captivating embrace, with the Dutch champion defending her crown and the American seeking redemption.

Yet formidable challengers lurk. Estonian Greete Steinburg commands attention – a stage winner at Cape Epic 2023 and second-place finisher at Transalp 2024. An intriguing wildcard emerges from Brazil: Luiza De Souza, contesting her first European stage race after impressive showings at Brasil Ride Bahia.

Italian hopes rest with Mara Parisi, the newly crowned national MTB Marathon champion (Women Amateur 1) and winner of the 86-kilometre women’s event at HERO Südtirol Dolomites merely one week prior.

A NEW COMPANION: GISELLA THE MOUNTAIN SHEEP

This edition introduces an official mascot to the Appenninica Family: Gisella la Pecorella. The mountain sheep, an iconic symbol of the Apennines, has been chosen to embody the spirit of the race. Daily, stage victors will receive not merely traditional accolades, but also a commemorative gift bearing Gisella’s likeness.

She will soon be joined by Nino from Appennino, her male counterpart – a name christened by the Appenninica community on Instagram.

THE CEREMONIES EVE, TOMORROW THE START

On Sunday afternoon, June 21, the hamlet of Vidiciatico in Lizzano in Belvedere hosted preliminary accreditation operations and official race presentation at 17:30 CEST. Mayor Barbara Franchi extended the hospitality of the municipality. Following tradition, proceedings culminated in the ceremonial cutting of a wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano, generously provided by Caseificio Fiordilatte of Gaggio Montano – a sign of good omen.

Tomorrow, Monday, June 22, Vidiciatico will launch the official start at 10:00 am CEST with a 48-kilometre loop stage offering 2,000 metres of elevation gain. The route promises flowing passages interspersed with technical sections: beech forests, forestry roads, and flowing singletrack. A compelling aperitif for the week that awaits the Appenninica Family.

The strength of any international sporting event rests not in the competition alone, but in the organisations and enterprises that converge to elevate it. For the 2026 Appenninica MTB Stage Race (June 22–26), a formidable coalition of partners has confirmed their commitment, ensuring Italy’s premier MTB stage race continues to serve as a defining showcase for the Emilia-Romagna region and its world-class industries.

The Emilia-Romagna Region stands at the forefront of this endeavour. Having embraced the stage race concept from inception, the Region views Appenninica as far more than a sporting event – it represents a strategic instrument to illuminate territories confronting depopulation, whilst catalysing meaningful summer outdoor tourism. Over seven competitive editions, this vision has already yielded demonstrable outcomes.

Barbieri PNK, the Bologna-headquartered bicycle accessories specialist, has anchored the partnership ecosystem since the inaugural edition. This year, the brand extends its commitment as principal sponsor of both men’s and women’s leader’s jerseys, produced by Natali Sports Wear.

Complementing this commitment, Enervit – the preeminent brand in sports supplementation and functional nutrition- provides essential support for athlete recovery both during and after competition.

In a region celebrated for culinary distinction, gastronomic partners assume paramount importance. Delverde (Newlat Group), now in their third consecutive year, and Rodolfi Mansueto – a principal producer of tomato-based derivatives- are entrusted with athlete nutrition and recovery.

Cabrioni biscuits and Acqua del Cimone (the event’s official water) complete this gastronomic ecosystem, ensuring competitors receive sustenance befitting Emilia-Romagna’s renowned food culture.

Lavor, Italy’s leading industrial pressure-washing manufacturer, provides essential logistical support, whilst Iren Group operates a dedicated bike-washing and refreshment station at Castelnovo ne’ Monti. Additional partners – My Bike Meliconi, Hibros, SquirtLube, and Coop Alleanza 3.0 – complete the sponsor list, ensuring comprehensive event delivery across all five stages.

Sport Bike Alicante delivers mechanical support; SeTeTrack furnishes live tracking and athlete safety oversight; whilst Evodata manages timing and classification operations. This technical trinity ensures seamless race administration and real-time spectator engagement.

Radio Bruno, the region’s flagship broadcaster, serves as Official Radio Station, maintaining presence at start and finish venues throughout the week. Daily stage-winner interviews will reach audiences across Emilia-Romagna’s principal radio frequencies, extending the race’s resonance.