Despite being the runner-up for the last two years, Alejandro Valverde is going into Il Lombardia as the favourite. The 35 year old Spaniard has never won this race but is looking to finally do so this afternoon.

“It’s such a hard race that now it suits the climbers and good descenders rather the Classics riders. That’s why Valverde is such a threat. He can climb, can descend and is even fast in a sprint finish. He’s also on form,” BMC directeur sportif Max Sciandri told Cyclingnews.

Sciandri says the first 145km don’t play much of a role, but the final 100km are very tough and will quickly sort out the riders who can win from those who are just looking to end their seasons.

“The race is all about the final 100km but it’s a very tough 100km. The race will kick off on the Ghisallo, then there’s the Muro di Sormano, a nasty descent and long run along the edge of Lake Como before the Civiglio climb. It’s five kilometres long at 8.9%. Then there’s the final climb before the fast descent to the finish. We expect Astana to try to control the race and force the selections. I’m sure they’ll set the pace on the climbs and especially on the Ghisallo and Civiglio, to make a big shake out.”