"I have to be happy with this for now" - Promising signs for Primoz Roglic on season debut

Primoz Roglic was a late entry to Tirreno-Adriatico. A surprise start to the season in Italy had him in unknown form and health following his operation over the winter, but all seemed in place as he rode to 12th on the opening time-trial.

“During competitions I know what I need to work on to get better. The most important thing is that I am back in the kilometers and back in the peloton," Roglic said at the end of his effort. "I don't put pressure on myself for a classification. I have to be happy with this for now. It's nice to be back and I'm looking forward to the next stages.”

Roglic talked of difficulties with his shoulder - which he got operated on this winter - whilst riding his time-trial bike, but on the rainy course he didn't seem affected. Despite the doubts on form, the Slovenian has ridden to a 12th position on the day, one of the fastest GC contenders to cross the line. The team features Wilco Kelderman and Tiesj Benoot has contenders for the blue jersey, whilst Roglic may be too but will above all be testing his form.

“We are certainly satisfied with this”, team DSArthur van Dongen added. “The ambition is to grow here and to make a good investment towards Catalonia and the Tour of Italy. Primoz and Wilco have never raced together before, so it is good that they can grow closer together in this way.”