Once you experience the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, you simply can’t stay away. Many athletes have fallen in love with this stage race through the Emilia-Romagna Apennines, making it a fixed appointment on their racing calendar year after year.
This feeling extends beyond amateurs to include elite professionals like Hans Becking. The Dutchman has competed in three editions (2020, 2023, and 2024), emerging victorious each time. For the 2025 edition, scheduled for June 23-27, Becking will once again start as the favorite in Lizzano in Belvedere (Bologna), hunting for his fourth consecutive title.
The Appenninica MTB Stage Race has become like family to Becking – an annual reunion with friends that creates unforgettable memories. The staff, excellent food, and stunning landscapes of Emilia-Romagna create a complete experience for all athletes, who enjoy a challenging yet emotionally rewarding adventure.
“Returning to the Appenninica MTB Stage Race feels like coming home – it would be strange to imagine my racing calendar without this event. It’s always wonderful to reconnect with people I’ve known for many years. Everywhere you look at Appenninica, you find smiling faces, good vibes, and positive energy. There’s a truly unique family atmosphere in the racing scene – and the food is another major highlight!“, explains Hans Becking.
On his path toward a possible fourth victory at Appenninica, the Buff-Megamo Team rider will face Colombian Diego Arias, who returns after his 2022 victory. The battle between them promises to be thrilling and hard-fought, right down to the final pedal stroke.
“Diego Arias is an incredible athlete. He’s not only extremely strong, but also an extraordinary person – it’s always electrifying to race against him. He’s stronger than me on the climbs, so I’ll need to find a way to drop him. I think it’s going to be a great race. I can’t wait. Anything can happen over five days,” states Becking.
Becking’s course knowledge from three previous participations gives him a distinct advantage.
“Knowing the area and the routes well will definitely be an advantage for me – I already know what to expect, both on the descents and climbs,” analyses Hans Becking.
The race hasn’t started yet, but the hype for this epic duel is already at fever pitch.
