Richard Plugge has had enough of Bjarne Riis’s criticism—again

Former rider and ex-team boss Bjarne Riis has developed a habit of criticizing Visma | Lease a Bike, particularly regarding the management of his compatriot Jonas Vingegaard. Richard Plugge responded to Riis’s comments during last year’s Tour, and now in the Giro d’Italia he once again made clear that Riis’s opinions in 2026 hold no relevance for him.

In recent years, Riis voiced criticism in several Danish media outlets about the operations of Visma | Lease a Bike. Currently, he hosts a podcast on the cycling website Feltet, where he expressed being “furious” that Vingegaard did not hold a press conference or speak to the media.

“First of all, he is the star of the Giro. And stars should appear at press conferences, I truly believe that,” said Riis. “It’s also the type of event that gives cycling more visibility. The sport often complains about a lack of sponsors, financial shortages, etc.,” referring to Visma | Lease a Bike’s search for a new main sponsor.

Plugge read Riis’s comments, which followed several previous critiques of the Dutch team’s performance in this Giro d’Italia. The Dutchman, a former journalist himself, had already reacted during last year’s Tour to Riis’s suggestion that Vingegaard should leave Visma | Lease a Bike. “Who is Bjarne Riis? He’s watching from somewhere in Denmark,” he said at the time.

This time, Plugge directed his response to Feltet. “I have read several articles on Feltet, which I believe is a respected, high-quality medium. That’s why I think your analysts should be of the same level,” said Plugge.

“You need to hire people who understand modern cycling; otherwise, Feltet risks declining to a questionable level and becoming a laughing stock in the cycling world. Of course, you can always criticize us and ask any questions you want. Sometimes there are many foolish remarks in the press, and in my opinion, that is not good for the Feltet brand.”

Plugge also reacted to Riis’s opinion that Vingegaard should have held a press conference on the rest day. “If one interview on a rest day determines whether a sponsor is interested, that would be a huge problem. But everyone we have spoken with, and our current sponsors, are satisfied with us and fully support our goals and methods,” said the head of Visma | Lease a Bike, where media relations are indeed well handled.

“I don’t know if you realize how much he already talks to the press. On Sunday evening, we had a long transfer to the hotel. It was a long ride with heavy traffic, and we have to ensure Jonas is as well-prepared as possible for what lies ahead,” continued Plugge.

“At some point, you have to say: now we need to rest to ensure he is ready and in top form for the next two weeks.”