Milan-San Remo

18 March, 1.WT, Italy

The !irst Monument of the year is in need of rejuvenation these days as it isn't really o!fering anything like the variety it used to. Don’t get us wrong, the !inal two hours of high speed pursuit along the Italian Riviera is some of the most dramatic and loveliest racing of the year; it’s just that the riders know exactly how to play San Remo and subsequently we know roughly how it’s going to end these days. Of the past 10 editions, the Poggio, the 3.7km climb that used to be so crucial to the outcome, has only done something truly de!initive on two occasions. Group or bunch sprints have determined the other eight. The speed and bravery of the riders in this endgame make some of the most compelling action of the entire season, however. A win from a big star would do wonders as well. The race had a less illustrious winner in Arnaud Demare last year who had the further indignity of being accused of taking a tow up the Cipressa.