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Milano-Sanremo Returns for Women in 2025, with Lotte Kopecky as the Early Favorite

Women’s cycling is set for a major milestone in 2025 with the return of Milano-Sanremo. After a two-decade absence, the legendary race, now dubbed Sanremo Women, will be part of the UCI Women’s World Tour, running alongside the men’s event on March 22, 2025. This exciting development, announced by Paolo Bellino, CEO of RCS Sport, marks a significant step in the growing presence of women’s races in major cycling events. Bellino expressed his satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of promoting women’s cycling, which he believes has yet to reach its full potential.

The exact route and details are yet to be confirmed, but it’s expected to mirror the men’s iconic Cipressa and Poggio climbs, with a likely finish on Via Roma in Sanremo. The women’s edition will offer a challenging and compact version, capped at around 160 km, ensuring a tough race across the beautiful Ligurian landscape. Fans eagerly await more information as RCS Sport finalizes details for this historic race.

In 2025, Lotte Kopecky will be the rider to watch. After stellar performances in classics like the Tour of Flanders and Strade Bianche, the Belgian cyclist looks poised to make her mark at Milano-Sanremo. With her impressive all-around capabilities, Kopecky is already seen as a top contender to take victory on the legendary course.

This return also brings Milano-Sanremo in line with other Monuments—Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège—that now have women’s equivalents. Although there are still discussions about the inclusion of a women’s Il Lombardia, the 2025 season is shaping up to be transformative for the sport.

The revival of Milano-Sanremo Women underscores the UCI’s commitment to gender parity in cycling. With the Italian Riviera as its stunning backdrop, this race promises to be a thrilling addition to the women’s calendar. Fans of the sport, particularly those following the meteoric rise of riders like Kopecky, are eagerly counting down to what could be an unforgettable event.

Sources: ProCyclingUK, Cycling Weekly