ProTeam Intermarché-Lotto looks ahead to the Race to the Sun: “Like riding a classic every day”
# Intermarché-Lotto Gears Up for Paris–Nice: A Week of Classic Challenges Ahead
**In a statement that captures the arduous nature of the upcoming Paris–Nice, team director Maxime Bouet asserts, “There’s cold, there’s wind, it’s hectic and there are crashes every year. Every stage feels like a classic. Paris–Nice is the toughest of all stage races, if you ask me. Mentally, you have to be ready for battle every single day.”** The team is bracing for a challenging week as they prepare to make their mark in the esteemed race.
Intermarché-Lotto will head to France on Sunday with riders Jonas Rutsch, Joshua Giddings, Roel van Sintmaartensdijk, Luca Van Boven, Milan Menten, Sebastien Grignard, and Vito Braet. While the team may not have a specific rider targeting the general classification, Bouet emphasizes an aggressive approach: **“But that doesn’t mean we won’t go for it. We can race aggressively and in an attractive way. We’ll try something every day.”**
The team is optimistic about potential opportunities, particularly for sprinters and breakaways. Bouet notes the strengths of certain riders: **“I saw a strong Vito Braet during the Opening Weekend. Milan Menten should also be able to show something in the opening stage in Achères, near Paris. That stage is usually chaotic. There’s often strong crosswinds and plenty of street furniture.”** Yet, this year the weather might be more favorable, with little wind predicted, presenting fresh sprint opportunities. **“I’d also like to see what our young Joshua Giddings can show,”** said Bouet.
This edition of Paris–Nice incorporates a team time trial, something Bouet is particularly excited about: **“Because it’s about much more than just time trialling. A team time trial creates atmosphere within a team and strengthens the team spirit. I’m really looking forward to it.”** Bouet identifies stage six, between Barbentane and Apt, as a potential breakthrough opportunity for Intermarché-Lotto, particularly for Rutsch and Grignard.
Rider Jonas Rutsch, returning from a severe crash at the Tour Down Under, feels prepared for the upcoming challenges. Having just completed a block of altitude training in Colombia, he says, **“The part that was in my own hands, I took care of… I feel ready, race ready.”** Rutsch has competed in Paris–Nice before and highlights its competitive nature: **“It’s one of the toughest stage races I know. Everyone arrives motivated and in top form, especially this early in the season. Fireworks guaranteed.”**
Rutsch plans to focus on early breakaways, though he recognizes the unpredictability involved: **“With a breakaway, you always need a bit of luck. You need to find the right group and everything has to work well together.”** Nevertheless, optimism reigns as he reflects on his recovery and eagerly anticipates the race.
As Intermarché-Lotto prepares, the team’s commitment to aggressive racing and teamwork will be vital in navigating the challenges of Paris–Nice.
