Cian Uijtdebroeks takes fifth place after 9 days of the Giro: “I’ve learned a lot here for the future”

Visma-Lease a Bike managed to explode in Naples on Sunday after Olaf Koeg won the first stage in this Giro.

The Dutch team’s main goal – to collect a basket of stage victories – has already suffered several dents due to the absence of, among others, Wout van Aert and the retirements of Robert Gesink and Christophe Laporte.

But in addition to Kooij’s win, Cian Uijtdebroeks’ performance is also encouraging. He ranks fifth after 9 days on Italian soil and is the best young player to own the white shirt.

“Whether that’s a goal? I want to finish the season on the highest level possible. If this shirt comes with it, that’s absolutely fantastic. But I’m just trying to fight as hard as I can to finish the season as close to the eventual winner as possible.” Uijtdebroeks said yesterday on Sports Weekend with Renaat Schotte.

At the moment there doesn’t seem to be a problem. “It’s been a really tough week,” he said. “It was also the week that didn’t suit me the best.”

“I had never ridden a gravel ride before and I was also nervous before the 40km time trial. We have made progress and that is definitely positive. I am happy that we succeeded and I am happy with the position I am in now.”

Next week, there will be another long time trial on Saturday and the Queen’s Stage to Livigno the following day. “The real meters and mountains are coming gradually. The transition to heavier work starts now.”

“I try to do my best in the time trial and then the real Giro starts,” said Uijtdebroeks, who could be a podium contender with these legs.

He remained humble: “A lot can happen in three weeks.” “I try to make the most of it every day and this is the best approach. I keep calm, have fun and learn. I’ve learned a lot here for the future.”