The countdown is on for Strade Bianche 2025 this Saturday, and the latest start list is out. Sure, we’re missing some names we might have expected, but don’t count out the star power already here. If you’re looking for epic racing over those iconic white gravel roads of Tuscany, here’s a sneak peek at what might go down—and who to watch.

### The Big Names and Dark Horses

**Tadej Pogacar** is, without a doubt, the man everyone’s talking about. With two wins already under his belt, he’s a proven master of this race. But he won’t be riding solo on the podium. The field is stacked with plenty of riders who have history here or in similar classics.

Take **Felix Großschartner** from Alpecin – Deceuninck. He’s known for his tenacity and ability to power through rough terrain, making him a serious contender if the gravel sectors get brutal. Alongside him, **Filippo Baroncini** and **Isaac Del Toro** could also be lurking as dark horses, ready to surprise us when the race takes a wild turn.

Over at Lidl – Trek, keep your eyes on **Jasper Stuyven**. A true classics specialist, Stuyven has the explosive power and savvy tactics that are tailor-made for a day of unpredictable terrain. And don’t forget **Michał Kwiatkowski** from INEOS Grenadiers—he’s got a history of strong performances in one-day races and the clever racecraft that could see him take advantage of any slip-ups in the peloton.

Then there’s **Richard Carapaz** from EF Education – EasyPost. While he’s best known for his Grand Tour credentials, Carapaz has shown he can handle the short, punchy climbs that pepper the Strade Bianche route. His climbing prowess could come in handy when the course shifts gears.

### What to Expect on the Tuscan Roads

Strade Bianche isn’t your everyday race—it’s a wild mix of smooth tarmac, tricky white gravel sectors, and short, steep climbs. Here’s the lowdown on what might happen:

– **Gravel Mayhem:** The white gravel sections are the heartbeat of the race. Expect early breakaways as riders try to exploit these technical stretches. The best bike-handling skills will be key here, so any slip-ups could cost you precious seconds.
– **Explosive Climbs:** Those short ascents are perfect for launching a surprise attack. Look out for riders like Kwiatkowski or Carapaz making a move when the pace slows down.
– **Team Tactics:** Even though it’s all about individual heroics, teams will be working hard to protect their leaders. Whether it’s sheltering Pogacar or setting up a surprise for Stuyven, every team will have a plan.

### Weather: The Ultimate Wild Card

Let’s be real—Tuscany can’t make up its mind. A sunny start could quickly turn into a surprise shower, making those gravel roads slippery and even more challenging. Riders who adapt quickly to changing weather conditions might just gain the upper hand when things get wet and wild.

### Final Thoughts

Strade Bianche 2025 promises all the drama and excitement we love about the classics. With Pogacar looking to add another win to his resume, and plenty of other riders with proven track records and raw talent ready to seize the moment, this race is shaping up to be a battle of grit, strategy, and pure heart.

Who do you think will take the victory this Saturday? Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in it for the ride, get ready for a day full of surprises on those legendary Tuscan roads.

Drop your predictions in the comments and let’s get hyped for an epic race!

Happy riding, and see you on the gravel!