Cycling: The Giro d'Italia 2022 starts tomorrow in Hungary. Eleven Germans, four Austrians and two Swiss will be there. One day before the start, we take a look at the tasks of the German-speaking professionals.
Bauhaus dreams of stage victory
Known as the nation of sprinters in recent decades, the Germans can once again rely on a few fast-paced men this year. But while most won't find themselves in the captain's role, may Phil Bauhaus actually realistically dream of a stage win. In his team he is the fastest man in a flat sprint. However, Bahrain - Victorious will primarily focus on the overall standings for Mikel Landa and Pello Bilbao. Phil Bauhaus can rely on compatriot Jasha Sütterlin. He will ensure that there is actually a mass sprint on flat sections.
Many sprinters are needed as helpers
In the Lotto - Soudal team we find three fast Germans again. Rüdiger Selig, Michael Schwarzmann and Roger Kluge could be fighting for victories themselves, but will give everything for their captain Caleb Ewan in Italy. The same applies to Alpecin – Fenix for Alexander Krieger and the Austrian Tobias Bayer. They will sacrifice themselves for leader Mathieu van der Poel. Rick Zabel plows at Israel - Premier Tech for the Italian Giacomo Nizzolo, as well as Austria's strong time trialist Matthias Brandle. And Nico Denz will be particularly good for breakaway attempts in Team DSM – and will drive for captain Romain Bardet.
Will Buchmann become the captain?
The plan in the Bora – hansgrohe team is completely different. The German racing team will tackle the Giro d'Italia in Hungary without a single sprinter. With a top three you want to attack at the top of the overall standings. In addition to Wilco Kelderman and Jai Hindley, Germany also counts Emmanuel Buchman as a hot candidate for the top 10. The first week should already show which of the three will prevail in the end. Buchmann will stand by his compatriots Ben Zwiehoff and Lennard Kaemna, The last-mentioned in particular could also ensure stage victories as an outlier in the high mountains. The Austrian Patrick Gamper should be too weak for the high mountains and should therefore be used much earlier.
Will Gall make a breakthrough?
Without a real captain in the sprint and in the overall standings, the French team Ag2r – Citröen tackles the Giro d'Italia. That could be the chance for Felix Gall be. The Austrian is only 24 and has recently presented himself excellently at the Tour of the Alps in the mountains. Last year showed how quickly the breakthrough can happen Mauro Schmid proven. The Swiss sensationally won a stage in Italy and was signed directly by Quick-Step. This year, too, there are a few stages that should suit the 22-year-old. Countryman will drive rather less conspicuously Reto Hollenstein. At Israel – Premier Tech he will have to provide help and, above all, stand up for sprinter Giacomo Nizzolo.
Leave a Comment