29/04/2024

Jonathan Milan & Juan Pedro Lopez lead two-pronged Lidl-Trek lineup for Giro d'Italia 2024

In their two leaders, Lidl-Trek take a pair of former jersey winners back to the Giro d'Italia with 2023 Maglia Ciclamino winner Jonathan Milan and former 'Best Young Rider', Juan Pedro Lopez leading the charge on multiple fronts.

“With a sprinter like Milan, we will be working hard for every possible fast finish. He will be our leader for the sprints and winning the points jersey is something he can try to repeat again this year. We are aware of his potential but, of course, we can’t ignore the strong competition that, we’re sure, will give us a hard time," previews Lidl-Trek sports director Gregory Rast in conversation with the team's official website. "For this reason, Jonny will be supported by Edward Theuns and Simone Consonni, that is the train which we saw working well together in the first part of the season. The experience of Eddie and Simone will be key for Milan."

Profiles & Route Giro d'Italia 2024 - 71Km of time-trial; Gravel; Stelvio and double Grappa ascent included

After his recent GC win at the Tour of the Alps, Lopez will stand as the main Maglia Rosa threat for Lidl-Trek, with Rast full of confidence is the Spanish climbing talent. “The man who, more than anyone else, has proven that he is ready for the Giro is Juanpe Lopez. His victory at the Tour of the Alps speaks for itself. Italian climbs suit him well, as he has already proven in 2022, and I am convinced that he can chase stage success on the toughest days," the sports director explains. "Then, day after day, he can keep a look to the evolution of the fight for the GC. I believe this can be a goal to chase as we go along, also considering the presence of two long time trials that are decisive for any GC talk."

With the team being completed by Jasper Stuyven, Andrea Bagioli, Amanuel Ghebreigzabhier and Daan Hoole, there is plenty of possibility for success for Lidl-Trek at the opening Grand Tour of the season.