'I think we can fight for Giro d'Italia podium'says DS after Giulio Pellizzari's final stage and GC victory at the Tour of the Alps

Giulio Pellizzari secured a significant victory at the Tour of the Alps, winning both the final stage and the overall general classification just two weeks before the start of the Giro d’Italia. The 22-year-old Italian rider made a decisive attack on the final climb, distancing key rivals including Thymen Arensman and former Tour de France winner Egan Bernal. Pellizzari then maintained his lead on the descent to the finish in Bolzano, sealing a performance that marked only the third professional win of his career and his first stage race triumph. The fifth stage unfolded under ideal conditions, with warm weather and clear skies complementing the stunning Alpine backdrop. The race featured two major climbs, with early attacks from riders such as Tom Pidcock and Juan Felipe Rodriguez, though the favourites eventually regrouped before the decisive final ascent. Pellizzari’s victory was a testament to his growing strength and tactical acumen, having initially approached the Tour of the Alps as a training exercise rather than a target race. Reflecting on his breakthrough, Pellizzari acknowledged the shift in responsibility from his previous role as a domestique to a team leader expected to deliver results. He admitted to initial doubts about his form but noted steady improvement throughout the week, which has boosted his confidence ahead of the Giro d’Italia. His team director, Christian Pomer, expressed optimism about Pellizzari’s prospects, suggesting that the young rider and his squad could realistically contend for a podium finish in Italy’s grand tour. Looking ahead, Pellizzari will participate in an altitude training camp alongside teammate Gianni Moscon before heading to Bulgaria for the Giro’s Grande Partenza. The Tour of the Alps victory not only enhances his credentials but also signals a potential new contender in the Grand Tour scene. With the Giro d’Italia imminent, Pellizzari and Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe appear poised to challenge the established hierarchy in one of cycling’s most prestigious races.