The Clásica de San Sebastián, also known as the Donostia-Donostia Klasikoa, is a prestigious cycling race that has been a part of the UCI World Tour calendar since 1981. Taking place in the Basque Country of Spain, this one-day race is known for its challenging route and stunning scenery. Let’s dive into the details of the upcoming edition of this classic race.
Scheduled for Saturday, August 10th, the 43rd edition of the Clásica San Sebastián will cover a distance of nearly 240 kilometers with over 4,000 meters of elevation gain. The race kicks off in the city of San Sebastián, also known as Donostia in the local Basque language, and features a hilly terrain with several categorized climbs that will test the riders‘ climbing abilities.
One of the highlights of this year’s race is the addition of a new climb, the Pilotegi, which boasts a steep gradient of 27% in some sections. The race is set to start at 10:46 am, with the fastest riders expected to cross the finish line approximately six hours later.
In terms of participants, the race will feature all 18 WorldTour teams along with top ProTeams. While some riders may be fatigued from the recent Tour de France, the lineup for this year’s Clásica San Sebastián promises to be competitive. Notable riders to watch out for include Julian Alaphilippe, Mikel Landa, Sepp Kuss, Richard Carapaz, and Primož Roglič.
The history of the Clásica San Sebastián dates back to 1981, with past winners including cycling legends like Miguel Indurain, Lance Armstrong, and Alejandro Valverde. The race has seen many memorable moments over the years, with riders showcasing their strength and skill on the challenging course.
In recent editions, riders like Remco Evenepoel have dominated the race, showcasing their climbing prowess and tactical acumen. The Clásica San Sebastián is not only a test of physical endurance but also a display of strategic racing tactics and teamwork.
For cycling enthusiasts, the Clásica San Sebastián is a must-watch event that promises excitement and drama on the roads of the Basque Country. Whether you’re a fan of the sport or simply enjoy watching elite athletes push their limits, this classic race is sure to deliver thrills and excitement for all.