Dutch Olympic athletes recently experienced cycling in Milan and were vocal about their dissatisfaction on social media, likening it to the terrible conditions reminiscent of the comedic segments by Capitan Ventosa from the Italian show Striscia la notizia. They noted the pervasive issues of potholes, cobblestones, tram tracks, and obstructed bike lanes that make riding a bike in the city far from the enjoyable experience it is in their homeland of the Netherlands.

The athletes, accustomed to using bicycles as serious transportation, faced an overwhelming cultural shock in Milan, where bicycles are often relegated to second-class status due to obstructions from parked vehicles and the constant disturbances from impatient motorists. The team, bringing their hundred orange bicycles equipped with bags and locks, prepared for the cycling environment of Milan, yet they still found the experience daunting and frustrating.

Ultimately, the athletes' experience highlights the broader issues of urban cycling infrastructure in Milan, contrasting sharply with the efficient and considerate biking culture in the Netherlands. Their remarks underscore the necessity for improved cycling paths and regulations in Milan, akin to those found in Amsterdam, to support a healthier and more efficient mode of transport.