The course winds through the rolling landscape of Emilia-Romagna, a region known for short, steep climbs that appear in quick succession rather than as isolated set pieces. The race is typically decided in the final 30 to 40 kilometers, where positioning becomes critical and the climbs are used as launchpads rather than pure selection tools. Riders who can handle repeated accelerations, stay alert through technical descents, and respond to late attacks have the best chance. The finish often comes down to a reduced group sprint or a late solo move that holds through the final kilometers. Weather in September can vary from warm and dry to wet and unpredictable, which adds another layer of tactical complexity.