Louis Meintjes looks forward to the GC fight at Giro d'Italia as "a refreshing change from the routine of the past few seasons"

Despite the presence of five-time Grand Tour champion Primoz Roglic, the 2025 Giro d'Italia promises to be a very interesting race as many riders have a good shot at a nice GC result. One of them is the 33-year-old Louis Meintjes - a man with five Grand Tour top-10 finishes. Such result could be within his reach once again this year.

However his experience with Giro d'Italia is limited: "After focusing on the Tour de France for several years with Intermarché - Wanty, I'm motivated for my return to the Giro d'Italia, my first since 2020," Meintjes says in a press release.

In last few years, Meintjes usually started his season with warm races in Middle East (Tour of Oman and UAE Tour), knowing his shape needed to be top only in July. This year he tried to do things differently. "It's been a refreshing change from the routine of the past few seasons, requiring me to adapt my approach and preparation. I've had a busier start to the year and feel my form building well."

That's also the reason why we haven't seen the South African high up in the results yet in 2025. "My sensations in Abruzzo were positive, except for the unfortunate weather on the queen stage. After helping Zimmermann to the overall win there, I went to an altitude camp in Sierra Nevada with the team."

"I feel well-prepared for my third Giro. My previous experiences here weren't ideal (36th and DNF), as I wasn't in top condition, but I'm determined to change that this year. My goal is to be active in the front of the race on several stages and achieve some success, whether through a breakaway or potentially in the general classification. If the weather cooperates, I believe I can contend for the GC."

Starting in Albania this year, the Giro d'Italia will visit a brand new cycling region (to most). For Meintjes, who has fairly limited experience with the Italian Grand Tour, it'll be also a bit of a learning process after a 5-year hiatus.

"The Giro and Vuelta offer a different dynamic compared to the Tour, with more open racing and opportunities for riders without fixed roles, making it less predictable and more engaging or difficult to join a breakaway. Beyond the racing, I'm also looking forward to experiencing Italy's diverse landscapes and the unique Grande Partenza in Albania, a region I've yet to explore."