Major landslides could see the Poggio forced out of Milan-San Remo next spring unless local authorities stump up €10 million for repairs. The decision to close the famous Via Duca d'Aosta road was taken by the director of public works in consultation with the local mayor after intense rains in the area caused a landslide.

While some work was done to prevent further damage, major damage to retaining walls on the climb and the continuation of landslides has forced the road to be shut.

The mayor later confirmed the closure on local news stating, 'During the week, further checks will be carried out, but we have already requested an urgent intervention by ANAS and the Liguria Region to protect the soil and prevent hydrogeological instability on the entire slope.

'The problem has intensified in relation to the recent heavy rains and tomorrow, with a yellow alert, further rainfall will be expected.'

Local news outlet Riviera24 has since reported that the repair work needed in order for the Poggio to be guaranteed in next year's Milan-San Remo would cost in excess of €10 million.

Engineers are due to visit the climb this week to further evaluate the state of the road and whether its restoration is viable.

The 4km-long Poggio di San Remo has been the final climb in the Italian Monument since its inception. With the summit falling less than 5km from the finish, it has often been the scene of winning attacks.

The past two winners of the race, Julian Alaphilippe and Vincenzo Nibali, both used attacks near the summit of the climb to tee up their eventual victories.

If the race is forced to avoid the Poggio in 2020, the final climb will become the Cipressa, some 25km from the finish line.