The iconic “Tempietto di Morbegno” provided the setting for the official presentation of the 69th Trofeo Vanoni, WMRA Associated Race and one of Europe’s longest-running and most prestigious mountain running events. As tradition dictates, the race will take place on the fourth Sunday of October, bringing together elite athletes, passionate supporters, and an entire community united by a shared love for mountain running.

The event presentation was attended by numerous local and regional authorities, representatives of athletics and sports organizations, members of the GS CSI Morbegno organizing committee, the Alpini association, and many mountain running enthusiasts. More than just a race, the Trofeo Vanoni has become a symbol of Morbegno and the wider Sondrio province, blending international competition with community spirit since its inception in 1958.

The 2026 edition will further expand its international reach. For the first time ever, Denmark will be represented on the starting line, while Spain returns after several years of absence. The event will also welcome men’s and women’s teams from the University of Edinburgh, alongside the Eryri Harriers of Llanberis, Wales, a club twinned with GS CSI Morbegno since 1993.

Inclusivity is another key theme for this year’s race. The official refreshment partner will be PizzAutobus Valtellina, a project renowned for promoting social inclusion through its activities and products. Competitors and spectators alike will be able to enjoy its special pizzas throughout the event weekend.

The 69th Trofeo Vanoni has achieved Eco Event Plastic Free certification, recognizing the organizers’ commitment to reducing waste and eliminating single-use plastics. To support this initiative, every participant will receive a branded Trofeo Vanoni cup to refill at local water fountains, helping reduce plastic bottle consumption.

This year’s race carries additional historical significance as it marks the 70th anniversary of the death of Senator Ezio Vanoni, the statesman whose name the event proudly bears. The race continues to celebrate his legacy while remaining deeply connected to the identity and values of the local community.

Participants will receive a race package showcasing the best local products from the Valtellina valley, including wine, bresaola, apples, pizzoccheri pasta, milk, cheese, and traditional biscuits sourced from local producers.

The organisers have also confirmed several of the leading teams expected to challenge for victory.

Defending champions from the Carnethy Hill Racing Team will return, joined by ambitious squads from SA Valchiese, France, Mexico, GS Orobie, Slovenia, and the Snowdon Race Team. Special attention will be on the young Danish athletes making their debut in Morbegno as part of their international development programme.

The women’s competition is equally competitive, with podium contenders including Recastello, led by Italian mountain running star Alice Gaggi, alongside teams from Slovenia, the Snowdon Race Team, Scotland, North Wales, England, Ireland, and Spain.

Supported by public institutions, local sponsors, associations, and hundreds of volunteers, the Trofeo Vanoni continues to demonstrate why it remains one of the most respected events on the European mountain running calendar. Combining sporting excellence, community participation, environmental awareness, and international friendship, the race is set to write another memorable chapter in its remarkable history.

Unable to make it to Morbegno, Northern Italy, on 25 October? You can still follow every moment of the action live on the SportdiMontagna YouTube channel, with expert commentary from Maurizio Torri and Paolo Germanetto, Head Coach of the Italian Mountain Running Team.

The official race booklet for the 69th Trofeo Vanoni is available online www.trofeovanoni.it and follow all the news on socials @trofeovanoni