Three days of aggressive racing!
# Groupama-FDJ United Shines in Aggressive Giro d’Italia Stint
After securing their first podium finish of this year’s Giro d’Italia on Tuesday, Groupama-FDJ United has maintained its upward trajectory through a series of aggressive racing tactics. The French team’s standout moment came during Friday’s stage to Verbania, where Josh Kench clinched sixth place, showcasing the squad’s excellent teamwork and determination as they pursue greater victories in the competition.
The second week of the Giro kicked off with promise as Rémi Cavagna captured third place in the individual time trial between Viareggio and Massa. This inspired Groupama-FDJ United to aim for breakaway opportunities during three challenging hilly stages leading up to Saturday’s first significant mountain test in the Aosta Valley. With the race starting in Porcari on Wednesday, the French team wasted no time in asserting their presence by placing Cyril Barthe, Johan Jacobs, and Axel Huens in an early move.
The formation of a breakaway was complicated due to long flat sections at the onset of the stages, as observed by team member William Green. “This Giro has been complicated when it comes to establishing breakaways…it’s a real team effort to allow the climbers to get up the road,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of strategy.
Rémy Rochas and Brieuc Rolland made strong efforts to bridge into the breakaway and kept the team’s aspirations alive. However, as climbing began, pure climbers accelerated past, leaving Rochas to finish 16th in the peloton.
Unfazed, the team returned to the offensive during Thursday’s Stage 12 in Imperia, with Jacobs attempting to position himself in another break. Despite his efforts, the lead group ultimately formed without him, prompting further tactical maneuvers as the racing intensified. The race saw key players positioning themselves early, setting the stage for the decisive climbs ahead.
On Friday, the strategy was clear once again: maximize energy and select the right riders for the breakaway. Jacobs quickly made the front group, while Kench and Huens executed a planned attack from behind. “They were in the right place at the right time, exactly as planned,” William affirmed, highlighting the team’s tactical acumen.
As the race unfolded, the breakaway captured considerable time from the peloton, leading to an exhilarating finish amidst the climbs. Throughout the race, Kench demonstrated a remarkable commitment, battling against stronger riders in pivotal moments. Although he ultimately secured sixth position, his disappointment was palpable as he reflected on his performance. “I’m pretty disappointed because I let the boys down,” he admitted. “I hope I still made them proud.”
Huens echoed a resilient team spirit, stating, “We showed how strong we are as a team. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out this time, but we have no regrets. I think we rode a really good race.”
As the team steels itself for the remaining stages, team members and management alike remain optimistic about future opportunities. “There are still great opportunities ahead…I think the team now realizes [Kench’s] potential,” noted William, adding that Kench’s performance in his first WorldTour season continues to impress the team, implying that he will be a key player in upcoming challenges.
Groupama-FDJ United’s commitment to an aggressive racing approach has already yielded results, and with more stages ahead, the team is focused on leveraging their strengths to capture further success in this year’s Giro d’Italia.
