What else could we expect: Lidl-Trek announces Giro d'Italia selection in a playful manner

In what has become a traditional and delightfully playful manner, Lidl-Trek has unveiled the eight riders for the Giro d'Italia. A message on the team's website then elaborates on their roles and aspirations.

Gregory Rast, Yaroslav Popovych, Michael Schar, and Adriano Baffi will lead the charge in Italy. They'll particularly aim for stage success with sprinter Jonathan Milan, who emerged as a revelation last year and clinched the points jersey. Once again this year, he poses as a formidable contender for the purple jersey. The Italian sprinter will benefit from a strong lead-out train comprised of Daan Hoole, Edward Theuns, Simone Consonni, and Jasper Stuyven. Should a stage prove too challenging for Milan, one of these riders may step up for a sprint (except Hoole).

Strong sprint train for Milan, Stuyven also plays an important role

"With a sprinter like Milan, we'll be giving it our all for every potential sprint finish," Rast conveyed in the statement. "He'll lead our charge for the sprints, and aiming to secure the points jersey again this year is well within his reach. We recognize his potential, but naturally, we can't overlook the strong competition that we're certain will pose challenges for us. That's why Jonny will receive support from Theuns and Consonni, whose cohesive teamwork we've witnessed performing admirably in the early part of the season. Eddie and Simone's experience will be invaluable for Milan.

Stuyven will also hold a significant role for Milan," emphasized Rast. "His form was excellent until the end of March when he was involved in the crash at Dwars door Vlaanderen. The time to recover that form before the Giro was limited, but both the team and Jasper were highly motivated to have him at the start. The first week could serve him well in regaining lost confidence. After that, he can focus on his own opportunities while also aiding in the lead-out for Jonny."

Lopez and Bagioli climbers on duty at Lidl-Trek

When the road inclines steeply, attention turns to a rider like Juan Pedro Lopez. "Juanpe is undoubtedly the one who has demonstrated his readiness for the Giro more than anyone else. His victory in the Tour of the Alps speaks volumes. He excels on Italian climbs, as he proved in 2022. I firmly believe he can contend for stage victories on the most challenging days. Moreover, he can consistently monitor the GC battle day after day. Pursuing such a goal seems feasible, especially with the inclusion of two lengthy time trials, which often play a decisive role."

"Additionally, Andrea Bagioli has all the makings of a valuable wildcard in the transition stages," Rast remarked. "There are numerous opportunities for him, and the Giro's terrain could be the perfect platform to showcase his talent." Alongside the mentioned riders, Amanuel Gebreigzabhier is also part of the octet.

Lidl-Trek Giro d'Italia 2024 selection

Jonathan Milan
Jasper Stuyven
Dan Hoole
Edward Theuns
Juan Pedro Lopez
Simone Consonni
Andrea Bagioli
Amanuel Gebreigzabhier