One of the coolest races in pro cycling is going down on Saturday. The iconic white roads of Tuscany are back: It’s Strade Bianche time. In just over a decade, the famous “gravel race” has grown a reputation that rivals cycling’s Monuments, becoming one of the most eagerly awaited races of the early season.
In fact, many have called for the Race of White Sands to become the sixth Monument, although that probably won’t happen. (And frankly, does it matter?)
Tadej Pogačar will begin his 2026 season in Tuscany. The world champion has been a dominant force here, winning three of the last four editions. His explosive attacks on the steep gravel sectors often turn the race into a solo display. In 2025, he and Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team’s Tom Pidcock broke away with 70km remaining. Pogi crashed, but thankfully was fine. Eventually he dropped the Brit and took another dub.
Other favourites in men’s race
Joining Pogačar is Mexican talent Isaac Del Toro, who has shown impressive form early in the year. The punchy climbs and tricky gravel stretches suit his attacking style, making him a key teammate for setting up the Slovenian’s signature offensives. Or, maybe the Mexican will go for it? Remember, he just missed out on the mini Strade Bianche at the Giro d’Italia last year.
French rising star Paul Seixas is another name to watch after aggressive racing in the season’s opening weeks. Could he be the one to finally challenge Pogačar? Meanwhile, Visma-Lease a Bike’s Wout van Aert will be looking to add another win to his record on these roads. The Belgian previously won Strade Bianche in 2020.
Canada has one rider in the men’s peloton: Pier-André Côté (NSN Cycling Team).
Vollering again?
On the women’s side, Demi Vollering, who won the 2025 edition in her debut season with FDJ–SUEZ, remains a favorite. Other contenders include Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney, Elisa Longo Borghini, and Visma-Lease a Bike’s duo Pauline Ferrand-Prévot and Marianne Vos. Canada will be represented by three riders: world champion Magdeleine Vallières-Mill, national champion Alison Jackson (St Michel – Preference Home – Auber93), and Sarah Van Dam (Visma), who makes her Strade Bianche debut.
Coverage begins at 6:00 a.m. EDT on FloBikes.com. Canadian Cycling Magazine will have full reports on both races.
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