What is the Gran Fondo Strade Bianche?
It is an endurance cycling event open to all, both competitive and agonistic. The 2026 edition features two routes:
- Medio Fondo: 87 km
- Gran Fondo: 137.7 km
When does it take place?
Sunday, 8 March 2026, in Siena, Tuscany, Italy.
Where does it start and finish?
- Start: Fortezza di Santa Barbara (Medicean Fortress), Siena
- Finish: Piazza del Campo, Siena
Who can participate?
Participation is open to:
- Members of FCI or other recognized Italian Sports Promotion Bodies (with a valid medical certificate for competitive cycling)
- Foreign amateur cyclists with a 2026 UCI license and valid medical certificate for competitive cycling
- Not-licensed cyclists/without a membership card and a valid medical certificate for competitive cycling as long as they purchase a one-day FCI license
The medical certificate is mandatory, must be signed and stamped by a doctor, and be valid on the day of the race (validity: 1 year). A sample template can be found here.
Are there age limits?
- Medio Fondo: 17 years old and up (calendar year)
- Gran Fondo: 19 years old and up (calendar year)
I don’t have a medical certificate. Can I participate?
No. Without a valid certificate, you cannot participate.
What if I’m not a member of a sports federation?
You can purchase a one-day FCI license for €10, which includes liability insurance. A competitive medical certificate for cycling is still required.
What is the daily license for and who needs to get it?
The daily license is necessary for those who are not registered with any club. It guarantees insurance coverage during the event, as required by the FCI. It costs €10.
Registrations
When do registrations open?
September 4, 2025.
How do I register?
Hai tre opzioni:
- Online at https://gfstradebianche.it (with credit cart or SEPA bank transfer)
- Through official tour operators
- Via the Charity program
When do I choose the course?
During registration, you will need to choose whether to participate in the Medio Fondo or the Gran Fondo.
Can I change the course?
Yes, it is possible to change the course (Medio Fondo/Gran Fondo) in your registration independently until February 12.
Can I register on race day?
No. Registration closes before race day.
When does registration close?
12 February 2026 or when the maximum number of participants is reached.
Do you have issues with your online registration?
Write to granfondo@rcs.it for assistance.
What is registration finalization?
By February 12, 2026, please upload the following in your registration:
- For LICENSED ATHLETES: sport promotion body, club name, 2026 license number, medical certificate for competitive cycling
- For NOT LICENSED ATHLETES: medical certificate for competitive cycling
You can check the status of your registration any time, it is fully completed when “LICENSE CARD COMPLIANT – MEDICAL CERTIFICATE COMPLIANT” appears next to your name.
How do I submit documents?
Upload them through your registration. Documents sent by email are not accepted.
I can't participate. Can I transfer my registration to another edition?
No, the 2026 registration is not valid for future years and is non-refundable. The race pack will not be shipped
Can I transfer my registration to another person?
If you are registered but cannot participate, you can transfer your registration to another person by February 09, 2026. Go to your registration, click on “TRANSFER REGISTRATION,” enter the new participant’s email, who will receive a link to enter their details and pay a handling fee of €20.
Race Number, Race Kit & Logistics
How do I know my start number?
You will receive it by email in February or check it on the official website.
When and where do I collect my race number?
At Giardini La Lizza, Siena:
- Friday, 6 March: 10:00–19:00
- Saturday, 7 March: 08:30–18:00
Not available on race day.
What do I need to collect my race number?
ID and confirmation email. Follow instructions if registered via a tour operator.
Can I change my jersey size?
No. The selected size during registration will be provided.
Where do I collect purchased extras?
At the race kit pickup point.
Can someone else collect my race number and kit?
Yes, with a signed authorization and copy of your ID.
Race & Services
Start and meeting times?
- Medio Fondo: meeting from 6:30, start at 7:30
- Gran Fondo: meeting from 8:00, start at 9:00
How do start sectors work?
Based on start number. Unauthorized changes lead to disqualification.
What is the time limit?
- Medio Fondo: 5 hours and 30 mins (race closes at 13:00)
- Gran Fondo: 7 hours (race closes at 16:00)
Are roads closed to traffic?
Mostly yes, but traffic laws must still be followed.
What are the race rules?
Follow the rules of the road: keep right, overtake left, obey signs.
What types of bikes are allowed?
All FCI-approved bikes except e-bikes, recumbents, and those with handlebar extensions.
What must I carry during the race?
Helmet, water bottle, 2 inner tubes, pump, repair kit. All mandatory.
Is private support allowed?
No, it is strictly prohibited.
How is timing managed?
By electronic chip (MySDAM). Wear it correctly to appear in rankings.
What if I am passed by the Fine Gar (End of Race) vehicle?
You may continue but will not be ranked.
Is there a broom wagon?
Yes. It will pick up those who drop out. Bikes will be held at the Bike Park at Giardini La Lizza.
What if I exceed the time limit?
You will not receive services or be ranked.
Are there checkpoints?
Yes, at the start, along the route, and at the finish.
Are there refreshment points?
Yes: 2 for Medio Fondo, 3 for Gran Fondo.
What about waste?
Use bins at refreshment points. Do not litter.
Is mechanical and medical assistance provided?
Yes. Fixed stations and mobile units are available. Private assistance is prohibited.
Is there an emergency number?
Yes, printed on your frame number. Add your personal details there.
Is radio assistance available?
Yes, along the route and at the finish.
Is a meal provided at the finish?
Yes. A Pasta Party, the coupon is included in your race kit.
Are showers available?
Yes, at Stadio Artemio Franchi.
Where can I find results?
On the official website gfstradebianche.it
Where can I get more information?
Visit www.gfstradebianche.it or write to granfondo@rcs.it.
















