Giulio Ciccone Triumphs in the 2025 Clásica de San Sebastián
Giulio Ciccone secures victory in the 2025 Clásica de San Sebastián, finishing strong against a competitive field.
Key Points
- • Giulio Ciccone won the 44th Clásica de San Sebastián after a decisive attack 10 kilometers from the finish.
- • Ciccone finished with a time of 5:05:33, leading Jan Christen by 9 seconds and Maxim Van Gils by 19 seconds.
- • The race featured unexpected participation from Primoz Roglic and significant climbs including Jaizkibel and Murgil.
- • The race was characterized by early breakaway attempts but culminated in Ciccone's strategic break during the climb of Erlaitz.
In a gripping finale to the 44th edition of the Clásica de San Sebastián, Italian cyclist Giulio Ciccone claimed victory after a bold attack just 10 kilometers from the finish line. Ciccone, representing Lidl-Trek, finished with a time of 5:05:33, crossing the line 9 seconds ahead of UAE's Jan Christen and 19 seconds clear of Maxim Van Gils from Red Bull.
The race featured a highly competitive field, with unexpected participation from former champion Primoz Roglic. Initially, a calm peloton enjoyed favorable weather, but after one hour, eleven riders set out in a breakaway, including Gotzon Martín and Julen Arriola-Bengoa, who aimed to disrupt the pack's pace. However, their efforts were thwarted as the group was reeled in on the iconic Jaizkibel mountain.
The pivotal moment came during the first-category climb of Erlaitz when Ciccone began to distance himself from his main rivals, including Christen and Isaac del Toro. The steep ascent on Murgil, notorious for its punishing gradients, provided Ciccone an opportunity to maintain his lead as he sped toward the finish line amidst cheers from the crowds. Despite Christen's efforts to close the gap, Ciccone’s strong final sprint secured his victory in this prestigious cycling event.
This year’s Clásica de San Sebastián showcased not only the athleticism of its competitors but also the thrilling unpredictability of cycling, as fans witnessed Ciccone's remarkable performance against a robust cast of contenders.