"In general, Biniam rode a good Tirreno-Adriatico" - Intermarché reassure Biniam Girmay's form ahead of Milano-Sanremo

Although he went without a stage win at Tirreno-Adriatico, drawing criticism from some, Intermarché-Circus-Wanty have moved quickly to allay any fears over Biniam Girmay, reassuring fans they are happy with his recent performances.

It was ex-pro Jan Bakelants who publicly voiced his concern over Girmay's form saying, "in Tirreno he performed a little less well than expected last week, I'm not convinced of Girmay." The Eritrean sprinters team firmly disagrees with the evaluation however.

"When Biniam released the hill stage in Tirreno-Adriatico, he had already worked a lot for the team. That stage was more of a training for him," explains performance manager Aike Visbeek to Sporza. "In general, Biniam rode a good Tirreno, finishing 3rd and 4th in the bunch sprints."

"Only we didn't have a stage in this Tirreno where Van Aert, Van der Poel and Girmay could compete with each other. So we have no indications in that area," he continues. "His home is set up in such a way that he can complete his training there perfectly. He is in good condition. But what is that worth compared to a Pogacar on the Cipressa and the Poggio?"