Former professional cyclist
Tom Danielson, who rode for Discovery
Channel alongside
Lance Armstrong in 2005, has drawn comparisons between the
Danish rider and the seven-time Tour de France winner. Writing on X, Danielson
shared his thoughts on Vingegaard’s impressive display in the Algarve time
trial.
"It was great to see Vingegaard ride so strongly to win
the time trial and take the overall classification," Danielson wrote.
He went on to compare Vingegaard’s time trial technique to
Armstrong’s, noting key similarities in their approach.
"I have to say he looks like a miniature Lance
Armstrong on the time trial bike with his position, body and style. His cadence
also seemed excellent: quite high and adapting well to the terrain changes (and
there were many!)."
Vingegaard’s victory in Portugal comes at a time when his main
rival, Tadej Pogačar, is focusing on the spring classics rather than
early-season stage races. Danielson believes that the Danish rider’s investment
in refining his time trial abilities could be a key strategic advantage as the
season progresses.
"This performance from Vingegaard in the time trial
shows that – although he is far from 100 percent – he has put a lot of work
into improving his time trial. A smart strategy, if you ask me. Especially on
paper, since Tadej Pogacar is focusing on the classics in the first part of the
season."