Giro d’Italia 2024 – Stage 1

It should end with a GC day of some sorts. Colle Maddalena will be too difficult for the sprinters. Then, the bonus sprint in Moncalieri will have everyone on their toes. Near the very end, Strada P.Isabella will make the final selection – it is the uncategorized climb very close to the line. As always, it will be tough terrain around Torino.

Route

The stage has just 1655 climbing meters but most of it comes in the end.

They race more or less in the outskirts of Torino all day.

Finale

Twice up the Strada P.Isabella, which means they’ll know the climb and descent. The once up Colle Maddalena.

Colle Maddalena.

Strada P.Isabella. It is a tough one.

The descent for home. Not a long descent, it will be difficult to bring back any riders with a small margin over the top.

Weather

A day just below 20 degrees C, not a lot of wind either.

Contenders

Martinez – on a good day, he will challenge for a top-3. I think the stage tomorrow is a big test for him, just to get a feeling regarding how he is doing.

Plapp – he loves a short, steep incline and is not shy of attacking. He had a setback in Romandie, let’s hope he is back to his best again.

Woods – a good stage for him. A top-10.

Bagioli – he has not been impressive of late. I doubt riding in Italy changes that overnight. Still, it is a stage that suits his attributes well. Top-10.

Alaphilippe – the man who in his prime could have been a threat for the stage tomorrow. I’ll throw him in for a top-10.

Bardet – not quick enough and he won’t win solo. A top-10.

Vendrame – he looks mighty sharp. He can surprise tomorrow, he is an excellent climber.

Pogacar – I can’t see past him. The winner.

Who will win?

Tadej Pogacar. Likely alone.