12/03/2023

"It's great to return to the peloton in this way" - Primoz Roglic seals Tirreno-Adriatico win

It was a great turn of events for Jumbo-Visma, as Primoz Roglic not only had a successful comeback to racing, but he obbliterated the competition at Tirreno-Adriatico, today sealing the overall win.

"It's great to return to the peloton in this way. My main goal was to gain race rhythm here and to suffer," the Slovenian said in a press release. "I managed to do both. That I would also take three stage wins and win the final classification, I certainly did not expect." With Wilco Kelderman and Tiesj Benoot claimed to be leading the team, Roglic came in without pressure - and with unshaved legs which rather visually proved his point.

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It was supposed to be a warm-up race and a gentle return to competition, but it was anything but. Roglic won stage 4's summit finish to Tortoreto announcing a comeback. The day after he took the stage win on the queen stage taking over the lead, and on stage 6 he resisted the attacks on the steep ascents and secured the blue jersey. Jumbo-Visma today had a calmer day and could take the 33-year old to the line safely.

"I may be on the podium by myself, but actually we should be there with the whole team. The guys worked really hard all week to help me get the win and deserve it as much as I do. I've enjoyed the time I've had here with them," he continues. After a difficult winter where he spent several months off the bike, it couldn't be a more successful start to the season.

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"Every year you get a year older and wiser. I got the confirmation that I'm on the right track, but that doesn't mean I'm already where I want to be. You have to keep improving and that motivates me to keep going. There is plenty to work on," he concluded.

The Giro d'Italia is his closest main goal. He was initially set to race the Volta a Catalunya, although it is now uncertain if he won't opt to skip the Catalan race. His preparation for the Corsa Rosa will largely depend on training and as was seen this week, that is more than enough for him to reach a very high level.