The Grande Partenza of the 108th Giro d’Italia took place in Albania. The riders faced a 160-kilometer opening stage between Durrës and the capital, Tirana. Five riders formed the breakaway after the start, but Team Visma | Lease a Bike controlled the pace in the peloton, giving the escapees little breathing room.  

With 40 kilometers to go, the breakaway was caught. The finale featured a double ascent of the Surrel climb, a seven-kilometer long hill. On the first ascent, the pace immediately increased, and several sprinters - including Olav Kooij - were dropped from the peloton.  

The same scenario unfolded on the second ascent of the Surrel. Lidl-Trek upped the tempo, putting pressure on their rivals. Near the summit, Van Aert - who had fallen ill in the lead-up to the Giro and came in with limited preparation - appeared to struggle but managed to hang on. With help from teammate Wilco Kelderman, he regained his position at the front. A reduced peloton then made its way to the finish in Tirana, where Van Aert had to trail Pedersen in the sprint.  

Van Aert was pleasantly surprised by his second-place finish. “I didn’t expect this result, especially after the last few days,” he commented afterward. “I told my teammates it was possible, even though I wasn’t sure myself. I didn’t feel great during the race. On the final climb, I was on my limit and had to give everything just to follow. That’s why I have to be pleased with second place. Unfortunately, I just missed out on overtaking Pedersen in the sprint, he was very strong again today.”  

Tomorrow features a short individual time trial in Tirana. The race against the clock is 13.7 kilometers long and includes a short climb. Van Aert sees a new opportunity to aim for the pink jersey. “You don’t get many chances to wear the maglia rosa, so I’ll definitely go for it again. I’m in a great position heading into the time trial, so let’s see what’s possible tomorrow,” Van Aert concluded.