The longest Italian amateur cycling race, Milano-Sanremo, is the latest cornavirus casualty. The 50th edition of the 296 kilometer amateur race scheduled 7 June is “annullato” – cancelled.

The promoter, UC SANREMO, made the announcement via website.

“It is with great regret that UC SANREMO must communicate the postponement to 2021 of the 50th edition of the Milan-Sanremo Granfondo, due to the persistence of the COVID-19 emergency throughout Europe and worldwide.”

Since 1970 the legendary race course, ridden by amateurs and professionals alike, starts from the heart of Milan, rolls across the Lombard and Piedmonte plains before climbing to Genoa.  It then runs alongside the Ligurian Sea to the finish line in Sanremo, which can only be conquered by assailing the legendary climbs of the Cipressa and Poggio.

Every year, the event attracts athletes from throughout Europe as well as from distant countries such as New Zealand, Russia, Japan, Australia, South Africa, Brazil, the United States and Canada.

Check the GFDN Worldwide Gran Fondo Calendar for the most accurate and up-to-date listings of current, cancelled and rescheduled events