The excitement is building as the 108th Giro d’Italia is just around the corner, kicking off in Durrës, Albania, on Friday. Top cyclists gathered at the Congress Center in Tirana, Albania’s capital, for a press conference, bringing the buzz of anticipation.
Favorite to Win
Primoz Roglic, the 2023 Giro winner, is the top contender alongside Juan Ayuso. Roglic, 35, has been in good form, winning the Volta à Catalunha, although he only competed for 12 days in 2025.
Roglic’s focus wasn’t solely on his rivals; he also highlighted Wout van Aert, his former teammate. “It’s interesting to race against Wout van Aert. He’s more than just a rider to me; he’ll definitely have a chance in this Giro,” Roglic said.
Roglic looked back at his 2023 Giro win, saying, “I’ll always remember my 2023 Giro win. It was a very emotional and special moment. I’m back, and I hope to feel the same emotions again.”
Juan Ayuso’s Ambition
Juan Ayuso, 22, is also a strong contender for the coveted pink jersey. Without teammates Tadej Pogacar and João Almeida, Ayuso takes the lead at UAE Emirates.
“Running the Giro is different from the Volta à Catalunha,” Ayuso said. “The Giro is harder and longer. I need to be careful every day.”
Ayuso is confident about his chances, especially in the time trial on Saturday. “I hope the time trial on Saturday will be an advantage for me. Age was a factor in the 2022 and 2023 Vuelta, but now, in my fourth big Tour, if I fail in the last week, it won’t be because of my age.”
Wout van Aert’s Uncertainty
Wout van Aert is making his Giro debut but faces uncertainty due to a recent viral infection that hindered his preparation.
“I start the race with some doubts,” Van Aert admitted. “The pink jersey has become more of a dream than a realistic goal.”
Van Aert explained, “Unfortunately, I got sick last week. My preparation has been far from ideal. I’ve only had one proper training session since the Amstel Gold Race, and I had to constantly adjust my program because the infection persisted.”
Despite this, Van Aert remains hopeful. “I still expect to have a great Giro. I managed to be in condition to line up at the start, and I still have a lot of ambition.”
Egan Bernal’s Comeback
Egan Bernal, the 2021 Giro winner, is back on the scene after a severe accident. He’s been gradually returning to top form.
“I’m still in the fight to win another big Tour,” Bernal said. “I don’t know if I’ll be able to do it again, but that’s my hope at least.”
Bernal revealed, “What I do know is that I enjoy competing more now than when I was winning. Thanks to the team’s support, I had an excellent preparation over the last two weeks.”
Tom Pidcock’s Debut
Tom Pidcock is making his Giro debut with Q36.5, having had a fantastic start to the season with four wins. He aims to enjoy the Giro and win a stage.
“Above all, I want to ride, give my best every day, and enjoy the Giro,” Pidcock explained. “If I do that, opportunities will arise.”
Pidcock is in great form after the Ardennes classics. “I’m excited about my first Giro. I have good connections with Italy since my win in the Baby Giro.”