Lidl-Trek makes drastic decision on Giulio Ciccone's schedule: Italian mountain king can forget about the Giro

Lidl-Trek made a drastic decision on Thursday afternoon regarding the schedule of Giulio Ciccone. The mountain king of the last Tour de France had a cyst removed a few weeks ago, which meant he would be sidelined for several weeks, but now the American WorldTour team has decided not to let the Italian start in the Giro d'Italia!

In preparation for the 2024 season, the Italian climber had to undergo surgery to remove a cyst in early February and was consequently unable to ride his bike. For this reason, he could not go on a first altitude training camp to Teide and also missed the Tirreno-Adriatico. Now, the polka dot jersey winner of the last Tour has resumed training, but 'in mutual consultation and agreement,' Lidl-Trek decided to pull the plug early on Ciccone's Giro ambitions. Initially, it was thought that his preparation for his home country's tour would not be jeopardized.

Lidl-Trek aims to "prevent further problems" due to Ciccone's "long period of inactivity"

The 29-year-old Italian was supposed to start as the team leader on May 4, but "unfortunately, reaching the ideal form in that timeframe is not compatible with the delicacy of his recovery," according to Lidl-Trek's statement. "Considering the long period of inactivity and the need for a gradual approach to training to avoid further problems, it was decided, by mutual agreement, to shift his focus to goals further ahead in the season."

According to the press release, Ciccone will be able to return to competition in May, but the decision on where and when he will debut will not be made until April.