The difficult transalpine classic of Strade Bianche takes place this Saturday March 2.
The favorite in the men's race is UAE Slovenian Tadej Pogacar.
But the one who won the Tour de France 2020 and 2021 will have to be wary of the Briton from Ineos Tom Pidcock, winner of the classic last year.
Among the outsiders, Julian Alaphilippe and Kasper Asgreen (Soudal-Quick Step), the versatile Slovenian rider from Bahrain Victorious Matej Mohoric or even Davide Formolo (Movistar) will have a card to play.
The French could also create a surprise.
Valentin Madouas (FDJ), 2nd last year, Romain Bardet from the DSM team, or even Christophe Laporte (Team Visma) will try to raise their arms on or after the line in Italy.
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The women's edition could also be contested, even if the Dutch Demi Vollering is favorite in her own succession.
The SD Worx Protime rider will have to watch the Belgian Lotte Kopecky, her runner-up last year, but also her compatriot Anemiek Van Vleuten or the Dane from FDJ Suez Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig.
Among the Blues, hopes will rest on Juliette Labous, second in the Tour de France last year.
The women's Strade Bianche race will be followed on Saturday March 2 from 12 p.m. on Eurosport 2.
The men's Strade Bianche race will be followed on Saturday March 2 from 2 p.m. on Eurosport 2.