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

Five-time Cape Epic champion, seven-time Transalp winner, and three-time German National Marathon Cross Country champion, Karl Platt has confirmed his participation in the 2025 Appenninica MTB Stage Race, scheduled for June 23–27. As one of the most decorated MTB Marathon athletes of the past two decades, the German mountain biking legend will make his debut on the trails of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines, adding another chapter to his storied career.

Platt recently claimed victory in the Cape Epic Master category alongside partner Calle Friberg, proving that his competitive form is still world-class.

This year’s Cape Epic tested us with extreme weather conditions, from scorching heat to heavy rain. I’m thrilled with our win—after twenty-one editions, I’m still learning. Now it’s time for a bit of rest before I shift focus to new adventures,” said Platt.

First on his calendar is the Appenninica MTB Stage Race. The German rider will line up in Lizzano in Belvedere, eager to explore new trails and terrain.

While I’m very familiar with racing in Italy and I love the Alps, exploring the Apennines will be a completely new experience. I’ve heard great things about the Appenninica MTB Stage Race over the years, and when my friend Hans Becking suggested I take part this year, I couldn’t say no. I’m really looking forward to challenging myself on these new and exciting trails,” Platt commented.

Racing in the Master category, Platt will face tough competition, including two-time defending champion Juul Van Loon. Among the most fierce competitors might also be Sydney 2000 Olympic gold medalist Miguel Martinez, who’ s weighing in on giving Appenninica a third shot.

A Bulls brand ambassador, Platt added: “I’ve heard wonderful things about the family atmosphere at Appenninica, and I’m excited to experience it firsthand. But I know that once I pin on the number, race mode kicks in—it’s just who I am.

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

Fresh off the 2025 edition, Appenninica MTB Stage Race is already looking ahead. The next chapter of the Italian stage race will take place from June 22nd to 26th, 2026, keeping its five-stage format. Early Bird entries go live on July 2nd

Arias and Bakker crowned champions of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2025

Colombian Diego Arias secures his second overall title after 2022, while Dutch rider Lola Bakker prevails in the women’s race after a week-long battle with Syd Schulz. Spica wins final stage and climbs to third overall.

Bakker delivers standout Queen Stage performance

Another dramatic turnaround in the women’s race as Lola Bakker claims her third stage win, building a commanding advantage

Arias moves closer to Appenninica 2025 victory

Diego Arias wins High Mountain Queen Stage, extending his lead in Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2025. Saitta remains second, with Massimo Rosa taking third on the day.

Bakker rebounds, Schulz stays calm

Lola Bakker responds after Tuesday’s setback, while Syd Schulz manages to limit the damage

Candeago bounce back in Riolunato

Third different winner in as many stages at Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2025: Andrea Candeago claims victory in Riolunato, outsprinting Vincenzo Saitta and teammate Diego Arias to secure the win that eluded him in Vidiciatico.

Schulz seizes the Pink Jersey

In the women’s race, Syd Schulz snatches the leader’s jersey from Lola Bakker

Saitta triumphs in Vidiciatico as Arias holds firm

After a strong debut, Sicilian rider Vincenzo Saitta wins Stage 2 of Appenninica, outsprinting Diego Arias and Andrea Candeago in Vidiciatico

Arias strikes first at Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2025

Diego Arias drops Saitta, and finishes ahead of Becking and the Italian

Bakker powers clear, Schulz hangs tough

Lola Bakker edges Schulz in a heated women’s contest

Appenninica 2025 kicks off: five days of pure MTB

Tomorrow, Monday June 23rd, the 2025 edition of Appenninica MTB Stage Race kicks off from Lizzano in Belvedere. Through Friday June 27th, 117 riders will battle across 315 kilometers and nearly 12,000 meters of elevation gain. Hans Becking and Diego Arias are the men to watch, while the women’s field is wide open with no clear favorite.

Twenty-Two Nations line up for Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2025

From June 23-27, the Emilia-Romagna Apennines will collect the attention of international MTB lovers with 118 participants from 22 different Countries. The Netherlands and Italy lead the field, while South America is getting more represented year after year