Milan aims for Tour debut and names Kooij as one of his biggest rivals: "He's a bit more isolated"

For the past two years, Milan rode the Giro d'Italia successfully. With four stage wins in total and two purple points jerseys added to his trophy cabinet, the Italian giant was a constant factor in his homeland. But now he wants to show himself on the highest stage. "I challenge myself because I always try to push my limits. Making your Tour de France debut ... Who wouldn't want that?" he wondered aloud to La Gazzetta dello Sport. Besides a debut in France, the spring classics and Milan-San Remo are a big goal for the Olympic track champion.

Eleven victories in 2024, and only Tim Merlier and Tadej Pogacar won more than the Italian superstar. But despite all the success, Milan knows he can do better and must do better to build on his success. "To win, you must make many good decisions quickly. You think over and over about what is happening. Sprinting is a collection of moments. I want to push myself and exceed my limits. I can improve in everything, from my position on the bike to my strength. And in the classics, I hope to learn a lot."

The competition is fierce: the sprint top is currently more diverse than ever, and no one stands out. He named Olav Kooij, Jasper Philipsen, and Merlier his three biggest rivals. "Kooij is a bit more isolated, Merlier is very good at catching up from behind, like during the last European Championships. Philipsen has an excellent team and knows how to use it perfectly. All three are very strong. And they too will attempt to improve." Van Kooij is almost sure he will not get involved in the Tour madness: the 23-year-old Dutch rider from Visma | Lease a Bike will probably ride the Giro again.