The 13th edition of La Stelvio Santini turned into a true celebration of climbing and endurance, as 1,800 amateur cyclists from 50 nations descended on Bormio on 8th June to take on the challenge of the Stelvio Pass. This year’s event carried special significance, commemorating 200 years since the road’s construction, adding a historic layer to what’s already one of Europe’s most iconic granfondos.
Fastest to the top
In keeping with the event’s unique format, only the timed ascents counted toward the rankings, removing any pressure to take risks on descents. That meant the spotlight was squarely on the climbing legs, and six riders emerged as the standout performers across the three routes.
Martina Cavallo and Fabio Lanzone claimed the King and Queen of the Mountain titles on the Long route, a punishing 130km course that included the climbs of Rogorbello, Mortirolo, and the Stelvio Pass for a total of 4,270m elevation gain.
On the Medium route (108km, 3,050m elevation), it was Mariagrazia Molteni and Simone Donghi who set the fastest times up Rogorbello and Stelvio.
The Short route, which tackled only the final ascent to Stelvio over 64km and 2,280m of elevation, saw Carmen Broger and Denis Taccola take the top honours.
Stelvio’s 200-year legacy
This edition coincided with a major milestone: the bicentennial of the construction of the Stelvio Pass road. Opened in 1825 by the Austrian Empire, the 2,757-metre-high pass remains the highest paved road in Europe and a symbol of connection across Alpine borders. Its 88 switchbacks continue to inspire generations of cyclists, and the organisers at US Bormiese, alongside Santini Cycling, made sure that this anniversary was celebrated in fitting style.
Whether pushing through the Mortirolo’s brutal ramps, pacing the endless hairpins of the Stelvio, or simply soaking in the views from the high mountains, participants experienced an unforgettable blend of personal challenge and shared passion.
Full timing results and further details can be found at www.lastelviosantini.com.
