Tom Pidcock runner-up Giro dell’Emilia

The beautiful climb to the Madonna di San Luca basilica was yet again the decider in this very old autumnal Classic outside of Bologna. After a long run-in with a breakaway of five riders, the peloton had to climb the 2-kilometer, 10,5% average San Luca climb no less than five times.

The Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team with Walter Calzoni, Xabier Mikel Azparren, Gianluca Brambilla, Milan Vader, Nick Zukowsky and Marcel Camprubí made sure Tom Pidcock was in the best position starting this iconic climb.

The first decision came on the third of five climbs when the group was whittled down to just 13 riders. The penultimate climb reduced the group to just seven riders. Tom Pidcock was always well-positioned. In 2024 he came in second place and the Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team leader was eager to win this year.

When it came to the last time up San Luca, he knew exactly what to do. He audaciously attacked from the bottom of the climb. Initially there was no reaction from the chasing group but underneath the flamme rouge the Del Toro attacked, joined Pidcock and beat him in the sprint.

Tom Pidock said:

“I’m happy to be feeling good again after La Vuelta. Getting second place again is bittersweet, but it’s always positive to be on the podium and a good way to start the final week of the season!” 

Next week Pidcock will line up for Tre Valli Varesini on Tuesday, Il Lombardia on Saturday and the Gravel World Championships on Sunday.