A bold new strategy for Jonas Vingegaard: can he conquer the Giro and the Tour?
The Danish cyclist is set to take on a double challenge in 2026, aiming to conquer both the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France. With a history of impressive wins, including two Tours and the recent Vuelta a España, Vingegaard is now eyeing the pink jersey of the Giro, a race he's never attempted before.
"I've been considering the Giro for some time. It's a massive event, and an experience I'm eager to have. Now feels like the perfect moment," Vingegaard shared.
But here's where it gets controversial: can he manage the physical demands of both Grand Tours? Vingegaard's team is confident that a strong performance in the Giro will boost his chances in the Tour, a strategy that could pay dividends.
And this is the part most people miss: the Giro victory would make Vingegaard only the eighth man in history to win all three Grand Tours. It's a massive achievement, and one that could redefine his legacy in cycling.
However, it's not just about the Grand Tours. Visma-Lease a Bike has a broader approach this season, targeting one-day Classics, especially the hilly ones, with a strong leadership trio. They're also confident that despite an ankle injury, Van Aert will dominate the cobbled races.
The Belgian star is also set to return to the prestigious Italian races he won early in his career: Milan-San Remo and Strade Bianche.
"I want to be everywhere in the spring, seizing every opportunity. Strade Bianche and Milan-San Remo are among the most beautiful races, and I don't want to miss them," Van Aert said.
Visma's CEO, Richard Plugge, is focused on the future, aiming to dethrone UAE from the top spot in the UCI rankings. With a squad filled with young talent and nine new signings, they're building a team that can dominate for years to come.
"Cycling evolves constantly. We've initiated innovations to stay at the top. Our ambition is to win Grand Tours and Monuments with both our men's and women's teams," Plugge explained.
So, can Vingegaard pull off this ambitious double? And what impact will Visma's new strategy have on the cycling world? These are questions that will be answered in the upcoming season. Will Vingegaard's strategy pay off, or will it be a risky move? We invite you to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
