Van Aert will debut at the Italian grand tour in early May. "I've never ridden the Giro, so it's exciting to be at the start. It feels like the right time to choose something new. Because my goal is to do well in the spring classics, it requires careful planning. It's a question of choices and sacrifices."

The Belgian time trial champion is already aware of his main target. "A stage win in Italy. I'm hoping to win several stages. It's a very demanding route. I have already identified some exciting stages. I will pick my days and see how it goes. It takes some getting used to to start the season like this, knowing that I will be riding the Giro."

For the first time in years, the Belgian will not race the Tour de France in the summer. "I hope to excel in the Olympic time trial in Paris. It takes place right after the Tour. That was one of the many factors in my decision to have a different programme in 2024. It will probably take some adjustment before the Giro, but I am confident about the route and I am looking forward to chasing stage wins."

"We will also be starting in Italy with a strong team. This makes the challenge even more attractive", Van Aert said. "With Olav Kooij we hope to be strong on the flat stages. We also have some strong and talented climbers in the provisional selection for the Giro", he referred to his new teammate and compatriot Cian Uijtdebroeks.

After the Giro and the Olympic Games, Van Aert will focus on the Vuelta a España and the world championships. "But those main goals come later in the season. The combination of the classics and the Giro requires special preparation, as I said, but I'm excited to make my debut in Italy. I hope to impress the fans with an attractive riding style. I have had a good feeling about this Italian adventure since day one. I hope to confirm that feeling with some stage wins in May. I'm looking forward to it", Van Aert said.