Tirreno-Adriatico 2023 – Stage 1

We kick things off with a TT.

Route

Probably the simplest TT in the world. Get on the bike, right turn, U-turn and then keep going till you cross the line.

Weather

Starting around 12:50 and finishing around 16: 00 Wet roads as it will be raining the whole morning too. I’m no weather expert but the roads could potentially dry towards the end. With most of the course being in a headwind, the wind is also lower towards the finish.

Contenders

I think it is better to start late, preferably after 15:00.

Ganna – starts 15:40. One of the latest starters. He is enjoying a good start to the season. He won the similar TT last year quite big, he will start as the favorite.

Wout van Aert – missed Strade-Bianche due to illness so starts the season here. I expect him to be near his best it is very rare he isn’t. He starts 12:56, that is not a good time to start.

Arensman – One of the GC riders here who will likely get a good result. I imagine he will finish in the top-10.

Sheffield – looked good until the crash in Strade – Bianche. I expect him to challenge for the podium. He starts 14:25, which is not too optimal.

Roglic – Normally he could fight for the podium. I will cut him some slack and just hope is slowly is finding his highest level. A top-10 is more likely.

Who will win?

I will take a win for Ganna. Form is good, and I think he has the best chance for dry roads.