Cycling

Road cycling is contested in two very different ways. In a road race, everyone sets off together and tactics are key: the peloton, breakaways, teamwork and the final sprint. In the individual time trial, riders set off at regular intervals, racing alone against the clock, with bikes and riding positions designed to minimise air resistance. The sport dates back to the invention of the bicycle itself: the first official race took place in Paris in 1868, the great classics emerged in the late 19th century (Paris–Roubaix dates from 1896) and the Grand Tours in the early 20th century — the 1903 Tour de France, the 1909 Giro d’Italia. Cycling has featured in the modern Olympic Games since the very first edition in 1896, and the international federation, the UCI, was founded in 1900. In competition, power output (measured in watts), recovery capacity and the ability to read the race are key: knowing when to push and when to stay tucked in the peloton makes just as much of a difference as the strength of one’s legs. In Mediterranean races, often contested in intense heat, hydration and pace management become decisive factors. At the 20th Mediterranean Games in Taranto in 2026, the road cycling events will take place from 22 to 24 August on the Valle d’Itria circuit, with four titles up for grabs: individual time trial and road race, for both men and women.

• 1Road race: mass start; the winner is the first to cross the finish line
• 2Individual time trial: staggered starts; the winner is the rider with the fastest time
• 3Drafting behind other riders and dangerous changes of line in the sprint are prohibited
• 4Mechanical assistance and refuelling are permitted only in designated areas
• 5Four titles up for grabs in Taranto from 22 to 24 August on the Valle d’Itria circuit