Jorgenson and Van Aert lead Team Visma | Lease a Bike in Tirreno-Adriatico
# Jorgenson and Van Aert Prepare to Lead Team Visma | Lease a Bike in Tirreno-Adriatico
The 61st edition of the illustrious Tirreno-Adriatico is set to kick off on Monday, commencing with an individual time trial in Lido de Camaiore. The 11.5-kilometer race against the clock will be pivotal for general classification (GC) contenders, who aim to secure their positions early on. The second stage includes an intriguing twist with a gravel section, reminiscent of the Strade Bianche, while the third and fourth stages present opportunities for sprinters. Later in the week, it will be the GC aspirants’ turn to battle for overall victory.
Matteo Jorgenson has been appointed the leader of Team Visma | Lease a Bike. The American cyclist is eyeing his first participation in this Italian multi-day event in five years and has had a successful run in Paris-Nice for the last two years. “In the winter, I didn’t think I would be in such good shape already,” he reflected, expressing optimism for the upcoming race.
Jorgenson, whose impressive 2023 season included a fourth place in the Faun Ardèche Classic, a second place in the Faun Drôme Classic, and an eighth place in Strade Bianche, acknowledged the importance of the race ahead. “We’ll have to be alert right away this week. Tomorrow’s time trial and the gravel finish in the second stage will certainly cause some changes in the general classification. Furthermore, the fifth and sixth stages will be crucial for the general classification,” he noted.
Team sports director Mørkøv laid out the team’s strategy for the week. “We are aiming for at least one stage victory and want Matteo to achieve a good classification. Matteo has had a number of good races, is highly motivated, and will do everything he can to achieve a good result.”
Wout van Aert, who recently impressed at Strade Bianche, has been granted a free role in the race. “Wout has his sights set on a stage win. He has circled the second stage in red, but he also wants to be in contention for stage wins in the stages after that,” Mørkøv explained.
For van Aert, the focus of Tirreno-Adriatico is to gain rhythm for the upcoming spring classics. “Tirreno-Adriatico is an important race for my build-up, especially after everything that has happened. I will choose my days over the coming week to go for a result. I will also try to help Matteo achieve a good classification. He is in good shape and, after winning Paris-Nice twice, it is a nice challenge to go for a good classification here,” van Aert stated.
As anticipation builds for this year’s race, all eyes will be on Jorgenson and van Aert as they strive for success in one of cycling’s most prestigious events.
