"I feel motivated here, something I didn't have at Jayco" - Dylan Groenewegen praises Kittel as he focuses on the Giro

Dylan Groenewegen spent a decade riding for Jumbo-Visma and Team Jayco AlUla before signing with Unibet Rose Rockets for two seasons.

In 2026, he started his campaign with a victory in his first race of the year in Spain, beating Paul Magnier in the sprint at the Clàssica Comunitat Valenciana (1.1) and finishing on the lowest step of the podium at the Clásica de Almería (1.Pro). During the opening weekend of the Spring Classics, Groenewegen went largely unnoticed, achieving only modest results.

Despite dropping down to ProTeam level, the rider insists that the move was the right decision for his career. "I’m someone who needs renewal, also when it comes to technology. I felt that Jayco couldn’t provide that for me", he said to the NOS Wielerpodcast.

"The Rockets were very open to all the latest technological developments and, together with Rose Bikes, we were also able to take part in decisions regarding the equipment. That was important to me when making this move", he said.

With Groenewegen preparing for a appearance at the Giro d’Italia, as the Tour de France seems less likely despite the winter signings made by the team, the 32-year-old rider shared his view of the situation.

"The ultimate goal is the Tour de France and we assumed that if we were to ride a Grand Tour, it would be that one. But personally, I would also really like to win a stage at the Giro d’Italia."

Bas Tietema’s team now has an experienced figure helping to guide the squad when races are decided in bunch sprints. None other than Marcel Kittel, whom Groenewegen praises.

"Kittel has meant a lot to me here. He makes sure I don’t stay in my comfort zone and constantly pushes me to do different types of training. That keeps me fully motivated, something that, for example, I felt was missing at Jayco," he said.

When asked about his objectives, the Dutchman replied with a laugh: "My agreement with the team is to win a stage at the Giro d’Italia and another at the Tour de France,” before adding: “For now, the focus is on the Giro."

As for the Tour de France, the team will first need to secure enough UCI points to obtain a wildcard invitation. "Now the responsibility is on our side. We will do everything we can to make it happen."