Eat To Compete: Risotto Milanese-San Remo

PezCyclingNews recently published a piece titled "Eat To Compete: Risotto Milanese-San Remo," focusing on the culinary aspect of the Milan-San Remo classic. The article, while ostensibly about the famous bike race, quickly pivoted to a detailed exploration of Risotto Milanese, describing its creamy, golden, saffron-infused qualities. The author noted a personal aversion to repeating dish styles but made an exception for this iconic Milanese staple, linking it tangentially to the race's origin city.

This gastronomic detour highlights a recurring trend in cycling media: the romanticisation of race locations beyond the competitive action. While Milan-San Remo is one of cycling's Monuments, revered for its gruelling length and unpredictable finish, this article shifts focus from the tactical battles on the Poggio to the regional cuisine. It's a nod to the cultural backdrop of European racing, often appreciated by fans who follow the sport for its blend of athletic prowess and picturesque settings, even if it offers little insight into the actual peloton.

Ultimately, while the peloton prepares for the brutal kilometres ahead, some cycling media are evidently more concerned with the carb-loading. One might wonder if the riders themselves are afforded such epicurean distractions.