Giro d'Italia GC outsider expects way "more spectacle" without a dominant rider such as Tadej Pogacar at the start

Although he's not racing for a star-filled team, nor wins 20 races per year, Davide Piganzoli may be one of the most interesting names out there on the transfer market. Slightly under the radar, the Italian climber grew into a very reliable GC leader at all levels, including a 13th place at last year's Giro d'Italia. Now the 22-year-old comes back for even more.

"I'm definitely coming in with a different level of maturity," he tells Bici.pro after the last stage of Tour of the Alps, "while the work program has remained the same, both before and after the Tour of the Alps. So I did a high altitude retreat, then this race to refine the work and then we're off to the Giro d'Italia. Given last year's results, I think it's the right approach. In general, I feel I've improved a lot and we can hope for the best." 

What exactly does Piganzoli refer to as being more mature? "I definitely have more experience and I feel like I've improved physically. I feel stronger on the race pace, I can keep up better with the other GC contenders . When you are young you always have to get used to the pack and improve. I think, with the passing of time and seasons, I will get there. I think the team has also changed for the better."

There's still a week between the final stage of Alps and Grande Partenza, but the Polti VisitMalta rider will use those days catch a bit of respite: "I'll enjoy a moment of rest and then we'll go straight to Albania. This year I'll again keep an eye at the standings, but without too much stress. We are in a small team and I think this is an advantage also to aim for some breakaways and win some stages."

Last year, everyone was dancing in the palm of Tadej Pogacar's hand. But the Slovenian is not defending his Corsa Rosa title. That means a way more open race. "Yes, definitely and I think it will be until the end. As in these days there will be many champions and many riders who will be able to do the race. Without someone able to dominate we will probably see more control but at the same time there will be more spectacle and more space for everyone."