The 2017 Giro d’Italia – Who will win the race to the top?
The Giro d’Italia enters its 100th year this year, and as the racing gets underway today, we will give you the full lowdown on what is considered the toughest of the 3 Grand Tours and who is eyeing up the Pink Jersey, the Cycling trophy that everybody wants to get their hands on!
How long is the Race and Where do the go?
The race starts in Sardinia, before heading to Sicily for stages 4 and 5. The riders the head to the mainline for the rest of the race, riding north through the heart of the country. The final week will be as mountainous as ever, with the Cima Coppi at Stage 16. The 227km slog from Rovetta to Bormio includes a climb over the Mortirolo Pass and 2 ascents of the Stelvio. This year the Cima Coppi is the highest point of the race, and as a result, the first rider to reach this point is awarded a cash bonus for their efforts!
How can I keep updated?
The home of cycling Eurosport will be broadcasting live everyday from Italy with daily highlight shows in the evening for anyone that has missed out on the actin in the day time.
Which teams ride in the race and who is the favourite?
All 18 World tour teams are invited to race at the Giro, and are all contracted to enter a team, there are also 2 wildcard teams that have been selected by Race organisers – RCS sports (see a full list of teams below).
- Ag2r-La Mondiale
- Astana
- Bahrain-Merida
- BMC Racing
- Bora-Hansgrohe
- Cannondale-Drapac
- Dimension Data
- FDJ
- Katusha-Alpecin
- Lotto–Soudal
- Lotto NL-Jumbo
- Movistar
- Orica-Scott
- Quick-Step Floors
- Team Sky
- Trek-Segafredo
- Sunweb
- UAE Team Emirates
- Bardiani – CSF*
- Gazprom-Rusvelo*
*Wildcard selection
The title holder Vincenzo Nibali is the man to beat after winning it in 2013 and 2016, along with the Tour de France in 2014. With a strong Grand tour Track record, he has all the making of a champion. However, close on his tail is Nairo Quintana (2014 Champion), who finished last season the songer and given his age (27) and pure talent, there is every chance he could repeat his efforts from 2014.
Who do you think will win the Giro d’Italia this year? Let us know on Twitter or Facebook, or in the comments section.