LIVE BLOG: Giro dell’Emilia 2024 Will rainbow jersey break Tadej Pogacar‘s curse on San Luca…

*Date: October 6, 2024**

**Location: Bologna, Italy**

Welcome to our live blog covering the thrilling Giro dell’Emilia 2024! Today, the picturesque hills surrounding Bologna will once again serve as the backdrop for one of cycling’s most challenging one-day races. With the stunning backdrop of the San Luca hill and its infamous climb, the anticipation is palpable.

**12:00 PM CET – Pre-Race Analysis**

As the riders prepare for the start, all eyes are on Tadej Pogačar, who donned the rainbow jersey after his victory in the World Championships. Pogačar, a formidable force in cycling, has often struggled at San Luca, a climb that has proved to be his Achilles’ heel in past editions of this race. Today, many are asking: can the rainbow jersey bring him the luck he needs?

Pogačar has expressed confidence leading up to the race. “I feel strong, and the rainbow jersey is an honor that motivates me. But San Luca is tough—it’s not just about strength; it’s about timing and strategy,” he said in a pre-race interview.

**12:30 PM CET – Race Start**

The race has officially begun! The atmosphere is electric as fans line the streets of Bologna, waving flags and cheering for their favorites. The initial kilometers will see a few early breakaway attempts, but the pack remains largely intact as riders settle into their rhythm.

**1:15 PM CET – Breakaway Forming**

A group of six riders has broken away from the peloton, creating a gap of about 2 minutes. Among them are some strong climbers, including Giulio Ciccone and João Almeida. While this is a calculated risk, the main peloton, led by teams such as UAE Team Emirates and Jumbo-Visma, is keeping a watchful eye.

**2:00 PM CET – Mid-Race Updates**

As we approach the halfway point, the breakaway has managed to maintain their lead. However, UAE Team Emirates has begun to increase the pace in the peloton, signaling their intention to reel in the leaders. Pogačar is riding comfortably in the pack, with his teammates providing solid support.

The weather is perfect for racing, with clear skies and a slight breeze. Fans along the route are enjoying a beautiful day, and the atmosphere is full of excitement as we head towards the crucial climbs.

**3:15 PM CET – The Climbs Begin**

We are entering the final third of the race, and the terrain is getting serious. The first ascents of the day are starting to take their toll. The breakaway is beginning to splinter, with Ciccone making a strong push to stay ahead.

Pogačar is still well-placed in the peloton, but the tension is palpable as teams start to position themselves for the impending ascent of San Luca. This is where strategy will play a crucial role.

**3:45 PM CET – San Luca Climb**

We’ve hit the base of the San Luca climb! The cheers from the fans are deafening as riders begin the steep ascent. The gradient is brutal, and every rider will feel the strain. Pogačar is moving up towards the front, looking focused and determined.

As the climb progresses, we see an incredible battle unfolding. Pogačar is gradually making his move, and it appears he’s determined to shake off the ghosts of past races.

**4:00 PM CET – Pogačar Attacks!**

Tadej Pogačar has launched a decisive attack! The rainbow jersey is blazing ahead, and he quickly leaves his competitors in his wake. The crowd erupts as they witness his sheer power and determination. Can he finally conquer the San Luca climb?

Behind him, a group of contenders led by Remco Evenepoel and Primož Roglič are struggling to keep pace. The tension is high—this is the moment that could define the race.

**4:15 PM CET – The Final Push**

Pogačar is maintaining his lead, and as he approaches the final few hundred meters, it’s clear that he is not looking back. The rainbow jersey is a symbol of his status, and today, it seems to be his lucky charm. The cheers of the crowd are a roar now, as they sense history in the making.

Evenepoel and Roglič are fighting hard but appear to be losing ground. Pogačar’s face shows a mix of exhaustion and determination—he is digging deep, drawing on every ounce of strength.

**4:30 PM CET – Pogačar Wins!**

**Tadej Pogačar crosses the finish line first!** He raises his arms in triumph, a huge smile breaking through the fatigue on his face. This victory feels monumental, breaking the “curse” that had haunted him on San Luca in previous years.

The rainbow jersey proves to be a powerful talisman today, and his performance is a reminder of his extraordinary talent. The cycling world watches in awe as he celebrates with his team, while fans chant his name.

**5:00 PM CET – Post-Race Reactions**

As the dust settles, Pogačar reflects on his victory: “Today was about believing in myself and my team. San Luca has always been a tough climb for me, but I finally felt right today. The rainbow jersey gave me extra motivation.”

Evenepoel and Roglič finish strong but can only commend Pogačar’s performance. It’s a reminder that in cycling, every race is a new story, and today, the story belonged to Tadej Pogačar.

**5:30 PM CET – Conclusion**

What a race! The Giro dell’Emilia 2024 has given us thrilling moments, spectacular climbs, and a victorious champion who has conquered his own doubts. As the celebrations begin, one thing is clear: Tadej Pogačar is a force to be reckoned with, and the rainbow jersey suits him well.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to cover the cycling season. What a day it has been!