Old Italian classic is reborn with a new name.

Italian race organisers RCS have expounded their new race, the Roma Maxima, which takes the place of the Giro del Lazio on the official race calendar.

The Giro del Lazio was last run in October 2008 after it was deferred from its original March place on the calendar. However, after a five year nonappearance RCS has confirmed that the new manifestation of the race will take place on March 3. Starting from the Roman Forum and then heading towards the official start on the Via Appia Antica, the race will pay tribute to the city’s illustrious past.

The finish will take place in the equally spectacular setting of the Roman Forum on Via dei Fori Imperiali, in the shadow of the Coliseum.

The race will take place the day after another one of RCS’ showpiece events, Strade Bianche. IN an official announcement, Mauro Vegni, RCS Sport Operating Director, adds “The Giro del Lazio has always been a jewel in the crown of this region and of international cycling. For many reasons it hasn’t been raced since 2008, but we never forgot it. We put a lot of thought into re-branding, as is shown by the new name and logo.”