2025 Giro d’Italia Opens with Unpredictable Competition in Tirana

Tirana, Albania – The 2025 Giro d’Italia kicks off Friday, bringing a fresh wave of unpredictable racing after the absence of last year’s Tour de France champion, Tadej Pogacar. While the Tour boasts the star power, the Giro promises dynamic competition as past champions and ambitious newcomers take to the roads.

This year’s field features strong competitors such as Primoz Roglic, Jai Hindley, Richard Carapaz, and Egan Bernal. Despite the notable absence of Pogacar, who is preparing for the Tour de France, many riders view this Giro as their best chance for glory in a Grand Tour.

“I will choose the races where Tadej is not,” Roglic said, acknowledging Pogacar’s reigning dominance. The Slovenian’s presence looms large, even in his absence, prompting other riders to step up their game and seek victory.

Roglic, a four-time Vuelta champion, is the favorite to win, viewing this Giro as an opportunity to bolster his confidence ahead of the Tour. His team manager, Rolf Aldag, emphasized the psychological aspect of being prepared to face Pogacar again in July.

For rising star Tom Pidcock, this Giro is a chance to prove himself after moving from Ineos Grenadiers to Q36.5. “We’re here to pick our moments,” he stated, highlighting his focus on enjoying the racing experience. Pidcock is eyeing the initial stages, which include challenging climbs and a short time trial.

Among the competitors, Juan Ayuso, Pogacar’s UAE Team Emirates teammate, has spoken confidently about his ambitions. “It would be a disappointment not to finish in the top three,” he said, aiming to break free from Pogacar’s shadow.

Wout van Aert, who recently fell ill, is approaching the race with caution. “My preparation was not ideal,” he admitted, tempering expectations. Meanwhile, Simon Yates looks set to challenge Roglic and Ayuso as they vie for the top positions.

As the Giro unfolds, riders like Bernal, who is determined to return to form after a severe injury in 2022, are also competing for their own narratives. “I enjoy cycling more now than when I was winning,” he remarked, expressing his resilience through challenges. The Giro d’Italia looks to be a thrilling event filled with surprises as the peloton vies for victory on Albanian roads.