Tirreno-Adriatico 2024 – Stage 1 Preview

We start with a flat time trial in Lido di Camaiore close to the Ligurian Sea. It is very similar to the time trials in the past.

Weather

Barely any wind tomorrow. However, there is a small chance for raindrops. Some forecasts say there is a chance of rain at noon and some report near the end. If you are a betting man, I would argue to look tomorrow morning. It had a big impact on the result last year at this race but La Vuelta 2023 TTT is also a good example to use, when explaining how important the weather is for a TT.

Contenders

Ganna – he has won the timetrial here in 2020, 2022 and 2023. It just suits him very well. It is clear that he didn’t start the season off flying and it makes sense as he didn’t touch his bike for six weeks. Now, we are a few weeks in and a short time trial can be won despite not being at 100%. He starts as the man to beat.

Sheffield – and his teammate may be the second biggest favorite. I think he is very good, hence the 3rd place here last season. The distance and terrain is very good for him, I expect him to finish on the podium.

Del Toro – a completely flat time trial is not optimal for him, but he should be good enough for a top-10.

Bjerg – given his legs in UAE Tour, I think I safely can say that he will be up there tomorrow. A podium result tomorrow is what I would expect from him.

Ayuso – completely flat TT, not his cup of tea. A top-10.

Vingegaard – doesn’t like them pan flat. Still, I’d imagine a top-10.

Asgreen – A top-10 should be possible despite a bad start to the season for him.

Wærenskjold – the big Norwegian should be a serious podium contender for the opening time trial.

Vauquelin – he had a very good TT in Besseges. I hope he can become more consistent and I think 21th in Strade Bianche is a good result, hopefully enough to get a top-10 tomorrow.

Who will win?

I think Ganna will take the win tomorrow.