Thymen Arensman eyes Giro preparation at Tour of the Alps: “It’s always a bit of a lottery after altitude”

The Tour of the Alps gets underway today, widely regarded as the most important warm-up race ahead of the Giro d’Italia. Among those looking to sharpen their form is Thymen Arensman, who hopes to find his best legs after a recent altitude training camp.

“After an altitude training camp, you never know how it will go,” Arensman told WielerFlits. “It could go well, but it could also go less well. I don’t really know. It’s always a bit of a lottery after altitude, so it’s no different now. Ask me again after the stage.”

The Dutchman has a strong history at the race, having finished second overall in the 2022 edition. While he’s keen to perform again, Arensman made clear that the bigger picture remains the Giro.

“Ultimately, for me and for the team it is a preparation race for the Giro. I want to ride a good classification, but I don't know how I will get down from altitude. It's fifty-fifty.”

He heads into the Tour of the Alps following a solid result at Paris-Nice, where he claimed third overall. Despite that momentum, Arensman remains grounded and focused on personal progress rather than external expectations.

"I have no idea what people expect from me from outside, but for me, not much changes. I just try to have fun and do my very best," he said. "The team isn't built around me, we ride very aggressively and everyone is free to do their own thing. I'll be fine."