The world’s oldest and most storied gran fondo, Nove Colli in Italy, announced it will remove the 10,000 participant limit and donate profit from the rescheduled race to help with flood relief.

The 52nd edition planned for 21 May, was cancelled at the last minute after deadly floods wreaked havoc along the Italian Adriatic coast and destroyed many roads used by the event. At least nine people died and thousand were evacuated after torrential rains in Romagna brought rivers to record flood levels.

Now, Nove Colli will be officially raced on Sunday 24 September 2023, with organizing club Fausto Coppi Cesenatico donating all profit to aid people affected by the May floods. In addition, the sold-out race will remove the limit of 10,000 riders to help raise more funds.

Fausto Coppi Cesenatico president Andrea Agostini made the announcement:

“We will not yet know what path we can take, but we are already working with the Mayor of Cesenatico Matteo Gozzoli and with the mayors of the hinterland to understand which roads will be accessible. I’m sure it will be an unforgettable Nove Colli. You will breathe that optimism and solidarity that TVs around the world have shown in the worst moments of the flood. Once again we will show what the Romagna people are capable of. I therefore close with an appeal: cyclists from all over Italy and the world, come and ride on one of our 3 routes, suitable for all levels of training. Bring a smile and help rebuild our territory.”

Photo Credit: Claudio Greco/Fausto Coppi Cesenatico

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