The Grande Partenza of the 109th edition of the Giro d’Italia will take place on May 8 in Bulgaria, where the opening weekend will also be held. From stage four onward, the peloton will move to Italy. As is often the case, the decisive phase of the Giro d’Italia comes in the final week. After a series of mountain and hilly stages, the race will conclude on May 31 in the capital city of Rome. 

Team Visma | Lease a Bike will be led by Vingegaard. The 29-year-old Dane will be supported by a strong squad in his Giro debut. The two-time Tour de France winner and reigning Vuelta a España champion has the chance to join an elite group. Vingegaard could become only the eighth rider in history to win all three Grand Tours. 

“I’ve been preparing for this race for a long time,” says Vingegaard. “Ever since I found out I would ride the Giro, I’ve really been looking forward to it. This change in my schedule gave me new energy. It will be my first participation in the Giro, but I’m aware of my status as one of the favorites. The competition is strong, so I expect a battle at the highest level.” 

“The race will probably be decided in the third week. That doesn’t mean the opening stages are any less important. I’m someone who prefers to take things day by day. I believe that’s also the right approach in a Grand Tour, where every stage counts. I’ll do everything I can to help the team win the pink jersey for the second year in a row. I’m looking forward to it,” Vingegaard said. 

Sports director Marc Reef also shared his thoughts ahead of the race. “The Giro d’Italia is often unpredictable, so we can’t underestimate anything or anyone. Jonas starts as the top favorite, and overall victory is absolutely our goal. We have a strong lineup to pursue that objective. I sense a lot of enthusiasm and motivation in Jonas. He already showed that earlier this season with his victories in Paris-Nice and Volta a Catalunya. We’ve been specifically preparing for the Giro d’Italia since last winter. We’re ready.”