Bahrain Victorious Set for Giro d’Italia
# Bahrain Victorious Eyes Giro d’Italia with Ambitious Roster
As the Giro d’Italia approaches, Bahrain Victorious is set to make a significant impact, led by Santiago Buitrago in pursuit of general classification glory. The prestigious race, commencing on May 8 in Bulgaria and culminating on May 31 in Rome, promises to challenge participants with a grueling 3,470 kilometers and an elevation gain of 47,539 meters. The route comprises eight flat stages, six intermediate stages, six mountain stages, and an individual time trial, with Buitrago’s overall performance likely hinging on the high mountain stages and the pivotal 42-kilometer time trial.
Buitrago, who has marked the Giro as a central objective for the season, returns after a fruitful first half of the year and an altitude training block in Colombia. Reflecting on the opportunity ahead, he stated: “The Giro d’Italia has been one of my main goals since last year. It’s a race that means a lot to me, one of my favourites, and it brings back very good memories. This season has gone in the right direction… I feel ready for this challenge.”
The team boasts a well-rounded lineup, featuring a compelling blend of experience and youthful vigor. Notably, Damiano Caruso, who brings extensive Grand Tour expertise, will serve as both road captain and key mountain support in what marks his final Giro d’Italia. Buitrago emphasized the significance of Caruso’s presence, saying, “Having someone like Damiano Caruso alongside me is very important. His experience in races like this is invaluable.”
The roster also includes Afonso Eulálio and Edoardo Zambanini, who will bolster the squad during medium mountain and selective stages, alongside Robert Stannard, who joins the team as a last-minute replacement. Supporting roles will be filled by Alec Segaert, Fran Miholjević, and Mathijs Paasschens, each bringing their strengths for various stage conditions.
Caruso expressed personal sentiment for the upcoming race, noting, “The Giro d’Italia is one of the races I love the most during the season… it will be special because it will be my last Giro d’Italia.” Aiming for both enjoyment and potential stages wins, he added, “It would be the cherry on top of the cake… it will be important for me to live every day fully.”
Sports Director Franco Pellizotti will lead the team’s strategies, focusing on the opening stages in Bulgaria before transitioning to Italy. Major challenges include the arduous Stage 7 leading to Blockhaus and the consequential Stage 10 time trial. The final week will feature high-stakes testing in the Dolomites, especially with the demanding climb at Piancavallo.
Pellizotti highlighted the strength and balance of the roster, underscoring Caruso’s invaluable experience: “Having Damiano Caruso in the team is very important for us, and also for Santi. He is probably the most experienced rider in the group… we want to try to win at least one stage, because with this roster it is possible.”
In summary, Bahrain Victorious aims to support Buitrago throughout the race, maintain a solid standing in the general classification, and seize opportunities for stage victories. With confidence building around their collective abilities, the team is determined to deliver a spirited performance over the forthcoming challenging weeks.
