The organizers of the 2008 World Championships in Varese, Italy, held the first site-visit from a national cycling federation to the city and the race routes. The Belgian cycling federation, Royale Ligue Vélocipédique Belge, spent some time in Varese to view both the hotels of the city and the race routes.
In technical director Jos Smets’ opinion, "The race routes are quite tough. That will be an exciting challenge. The road race is tough, featuring two steep climbs. I guess this route will be selective. A rider with Paolo Bettini’s qualities may emerge. Italy and Belgium will go head-to-head. I expect the riders will battle it out in the time trials too, especially in the women and U23 races, the favourites will be riders with climber’s qualities."
