Share

France's Pinot targets Giro win

Paris - French climb specialist Thibaut Pinot will make the Giro d'Italia his number one priority for the 2017 season, the FDJ cyclist said on Tuesday.

Pinot, 26, third in the 2014 Tour de France, will be one of the favourites to clinch an overall victory in Italy in May.

"The stages on the Giro suit me better than on the Tour de France, but the pressure will be just the same," said Pinot, who climbed to a rousing hero's reception at the Alpe de Huez mountain stage on the 2015 Tour.

"For the Tour de France we'll see how I am after the Giro, I may target the polka dot (King of the Mountains) jersey," he added.

Known essentially as a dogged climber the FDJ team leader has honed his time trialling in recent seasons but is a nervy descender, and next year's Tour de France is heavy on downhill finishes.

Pinot's team chief Marc Madiot felt the time was ripe for his protégé to take part in his first Giro after five Tour de France appearances.

"It's a bit like playing an away game at football," said Madiot.

"But it really looks like the right year for him to go to the Giro."

The 100th edition of the Giro embarks from Sardinia on May 5 and features more of a pure climber's route.


We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE