Tre Valli Varesine Cancelled Due to Severe Weather Conditions
The 103rd edition of the Tre Valli Varesine, a prestigious cycling race in Italy, was abruptly cancelled on October 8, 2024, following hours of heavy rain that rendered the course unsafe. World champion Tadej Pogacar, among other cyclists, expressed concerns about the dangerous conditions, leading to a collective decision to halt the race after just over an hour of competition.
Initially scheduled to serve as a preparatory event for the upcoming Tour of Lombardy, the race faced severe weather challenges from the start. Organizers had already shortened the route by 32 kilometers due to the adverse conditions. The race was further delayed by twenty minutes before it commenced, but the situation worsened as riders encountered torrential rain and strong winds.
At approximately 2 PM, visibility became dangerously low, and water began gushing from manholes, creating treacherous riding conditions. Pogacar, speaking on behalf of the riders, highlighted the risks involved, stating, "The road was covered in water... you couldn't see the asphalt. There were many punctures and broken wheels. We felt racing in such conditions was unsafe."
Pogacar also referenced a tragic incident from a recent junior race in Zurich, where a rider lost her life due to similar conditions, emphasizing the importance of safety in cycling events. While the men's race was called off, the women’s version of the Tre Valli Varesine managed to conclude under the same severe weather, with French cyclist Cédrine Kerbaol taking the victory.
As the weather is expected to improve in the evening, Pogacar and his fellow competitors will be looking ahead to the Tour of Lombardy, where he hopes to defend his title as the reigning champion.
