Lanterne Rouge Cycling Podcast Il Lombardia 2025 Preview
Oct 8, 2025
The hosts preview the thrilling Il Lombardia 2025 race, starting with a detailed route overview from Como to Bergamo. They debate whether anyone can dethrone Pogacar, exploring UAE's race control and tactics. Key climbs are dissected, with insights on how they influence the race's outcome. Discussion includes Remco Evenepoel’s strategies and the potential of other contenders like Ciccone and Pidcock. Predictions on the top-10 finishers and bold calls for the podium wrap up this exciting analysis of one of cycling’s grandest events.
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Key Climbs Define The Finale
- Il Lombardia's finale features Ganda (9km at ~7%) cresting ~31km out, then Colle Aperto with a steep final 1.3km at ~7.5% near the finish.
- The race design makes a late selective attack on Ganda plus a finish climb decisive for victory.
Team Control Funnels The Race
- Benji argues there's a clear scripted scenario where UAE sends a rider in the break then Pogacar attacks on the final climb to win.
- He sees many race permutations but believes team control funnels the race toward Pogacar's strength.
Motorbike Draft Made The Chase Futile
- Patrick recounts a race where a motorbike draft made a chase ineffective and Quinn Simmons wasted huge power trying to close.
- The story illustrates how race circumstances and organizer positioning can render chases futile.