Team Jumbo-Visma’s original plan was to let Kruijswijk ride the Tour de France, but due to a crash in the Critérium du Dauphiné, La Grande Boucle came too early for the 33-year-old rider. He is now aiming for a top result in the Giro d’Italia. The core of the Giro selection, including Kruijswijk, prepared at an altitude training camp in Tignes.

The number three of last year’s Tour de France appear at the start in Monreale in a good shape. “In the first week we can immediately brace ourselves. The third stage already has an uphill finish. That will be a measure for me to see where I stand. I haven't started in many races this year, so we have to explore. It is a nice course with a lot of hard stages. There are also a few nice time trials. The last week will be decisive.”

Sports director Addy Engels is looking forward to the grand tour with confidence. “The main goal is to go for a good classification with Steven. The team is also composed with this goal in mind. We can assist him on several fronts. The selection is a nice mix of strong riders and guys who can ride uphill. With Tobias Foss and Chris Harper we have two riders riding their first grand tour. The opening week is difficult, so we will have to focus 100 percent from day one.”