"Performances like today’s give us motivation" - Richard Carapaz limits losses well on Giro d'Italia time trial

On Stage 2 of the 2025 Giro d’Italia, Richard Carapaz produced a promising performance in the individual time trial, finishing 32nd — just 38 seconds behind stage winner Joshua Tarling and 37 seconds behind Primoz Roglic, the race favourite and one of the Ecuadorian's main rivals for the Maglia Rosa.

Though not traditionally known as a time trial specialist, the Ecuadorian national champion managed to limit his losses on the 13.7-kilometre course through the streets of Tirana, Albania. After the stage, he spoke to Cycling Pro Net about the significance of his ride.

"We came into this with a clear objective — we wanted to execute a strong time trial, and it went even better than we expected," Carapaz said. "It’s a real morale boost — for the team and for me personally. It shows we’re still on track toward our main goal."

Carapaz emphasized the meticulous preparation that’s gone into this year’s Giro, reflecting on the long-term planning that began months in advance. "We’ve been preparing for the Giro since October. It’s been our top priority, and we were determined to come in strong. We knew it wasn’t going to be easy — there are new talents emerging in the peloton who are really starting to shine," he says. "But performances like today’s give us the motivation to keep fighting."

The Olympic champion reiterated that both his physical condition and mindset are where they need to be at this early stage of the race. "I think we’ve planned everything really well as a team," he explains. "We’ve come here in great shape, and I’ve always believed in my endurance. There are still many weeks to go, and I’m confident I’ll have the chance to show what I’m capable of."

Carapaz also acknowledged the strength of Primoz Roglic, who put in a standout ride, finishing just one second behind Tarling — one of the world’s best time trialists. "Roglic clearly came here with a clear goal as well," concludes the EF Education-EasyPost leader. "He’s a specialist in these kinds of efforts, and we all know he’s a major contender for the Giro title."