Moschetti, an outsider in the Giro sprints, knows there's always a chance: 'Even if you're not the strongest'

With names like Jonathan Milan, Paul Magnier and Dylan Groenewegen on the start list, Matteo Moschetti isn't the first name you think of when it comes to the Giro d'Italia sprint stages. But what if the Pinarello-Q36.5 Italian turns out to be the big surprise on day one in Burgas? The experienced campaigner knows full well that you don't have to be the best to win a sprint.

Third, fourth and sixth at the AlUla Tour; third and fourth at the Étoile de Bessèges; fourth at the Clásica de Almería; second at the Settimana Coppi e Bartali; and third at the Famenne Ardenne Classic just last Sunday — wins have eluded him, but Moschetti has come close on a number of occasions. In smaller races, admittedly, which is a different world from the Giro.

"In Italy, we really are connected to the Giro. It belongs to the people. The race passes through your region, your city, your village — and people are genuinely proud of it," the Italian tells his team's press release. Moschetti is raring to go, after illness cost him part of his spring.

Where a puncheur and climber like Lennert Van Eetvelt counted "around fifteen opportunities" for himself, the reality for a sprinter is different. Six chances — that is Moschetti's count. And even then, it doesn't necessarily matter all that much whether you're the outright favourite. "Sprinting is still one of the few disciplines where, even if you're not the strongest on the day, you can still try to win with tactics, positioning, feel and timing."

His preparation, at least, has left nothing to be desired. "Sometimes you start thinking about those stages three or four days in advance. You try to use as little energy as possible to be ready for the sprint. For most people they're boring stages, but for a sprinter it's the day. You're glad you get your chance — but at the same time you know everything is on the line."

The experienced campaigner has one stage circled in particular: stage 15, which finishes in Milan — the city where he was born. "My family and friends will be there. It would really mean something special to win that stage," Moschetti says, looking ahead to the final stage of the second week.

That will be a day to savour, in contrast to the mountain stages. "Sometimes you're chasing from the very first kilometre, and then you switch into survival mode. It's a shared effort with the other riders in the peloton. When you arrive, there's relief — and also pride that you made it," Moschetti concludes.