Is co-leadership the only way to challenge Vingegaard at Giro d'Italia? Jai Hindley set to share Red Bull reigns with Pellizzari after season of domestique duties

Jai Hindley is set to share leadership duties at the 2026 Giro d’Italia with rising Italian talent Giulio Pellizzari as Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe seek to mount a credible challenge against the clear favourite, Jonas Vingegaard. Despite being one of only two former Giro winners in the race alongside Egan Bernal, Hindley will not have sole leadership, reflecting the team’s strategic approach to leverage the strengths of both riders. This co-leadership model marks a shift for Hindley, who has spent much of the current season supporting Pellizzari and other teammates in key races. Hindley emphasised the benefits of having two leaders working in tandem, highlighting the strong rapport he shares with Pellizzari and the tactical advantage it provides in the race’s decisive moments. Both riders have demonstrated considerable form, with Pellizzari’s recent victories in the Tour of the Alps signalling his readiness to contend on home soil. Hindley, meanwhile, arrives at the Giro confident in his fitness following a solid build-up, including training camps in Tenerife and strong showings in the Ardennes classics. The pair are well aware of the formidable challenge posed by Vingegaard, who is aiming to complete the Grand Tour set with a Giro victory. Hindley and Pellizzari’s previous collaboration at the Vuelta a España saw them fall behind the Danish star, but their combined experience and complementary skills offer hope for a more competitive showing this time around. Hindley also draws motivation from the race’s route, particularly the iconic Blockhaus climb, which holds personal significance from his 2022 victory and his time spent living and training in the Abruzzo region. With the Giro marking a crucial moment in Hindley’s career, the coming three weeks will be pivotal as he seeks to prove his value in a contract year. At 30, and without a confirmed team for 2027, a strong performance alongside Pellizzari could influence his future prospects. As Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe navigate the complexities of co-leadership, their approach may offer a blueprint for challenging Vingegaard’s dominance in one of cycling’s most prestigious Grand Tours.