João Almeida admits preparation for Giro d'Italia "was almost perfect"

João Almeida has extensively talked about his preparation for the Giro d'Italia recently, having shown a lot of confidence in his form and the results to match it. He enters the Corsa Rosa as a big contender for the podium and will be eager to perform over the three weeks for the fourth consecutive time.

"I feel more prepared, I'm slightly strong, which automatically gives me more confidence, in terms of attitude it helps a lot," Almeida told the Portuguese Cycling Magazine. "Besides, this year I've had no bad luck in my preparations, no mishaps, it was almost perfect let's say. That was the main difference, the decisive factor in my form."

The Portuguese started his season at the Mallorca classics, and then at his home Volta ao Algarve rode to sixth in the overall classification, having finished second in the uphill finish at the Alto do Malhão. At Tirreno-Adriatico he rode a consistent race, finishing second to Primoz Roglic after riding in the time-trials, mountains and explosive hilly stages.

It was a build-up towards the Volta a Catalunya, where he finished third only behind Primoz Roglic and João Almeida - who coincidentally are the two riders above him in the chances to win the Giro according to many. Jay Vine and Brandon McNulty take part in the lineup as well in what could be a very dangerous team to attack the likes of INEOS Grenadiers and Bahrain - Victorious who also have strong lineups.