'I packed my suitcase as soon as I had the call' – Young Brit Josh Giddings plunged into last-minute Grand Tour debut at Giro d'Italia

Josh Giddings, a 22-year-old British cyclist, has been thrust into the spotlight with a last-minute call-up to make his Grand Tour debut at the 2026 Giro d’Italia. Originally scheduled to compete in the Classique Dunkerque and Four Days of Dunkerque, Giddings was suddenly summoned by his Lotto-Intermarché team after several riders fell ill due to a suspected campylobacter outbreak linked to racing over cow manure at the Famenne Ardenne Classic. With just over 48 hours’ notice, Giddings packed his bags and flew from Manchester to Bulgaria, where the Giro’s start is taking place, ready to take on the demanding three-week race. Despite the sudden nature of his inclusion, Giddings managed the logistics smoothly, bringing his own training bike and receiving his race bike from a teammate, ensuring he had all the necessary equipment. While he had not specifically prepared for the Giro, Giddings remained positive and focused, acknowledging the challenge ahead as his longest race to date, far exceeding his previous maximum of eight stages in events such as the Tour of Britain and Tour de l’Avenir. He emphasised the importance of mental readiness and is awaiting clarification on his role within the team during the pre-race meetings. The illness that sidelined several Lotto-Intermarché riders appears to be improving, with affected teammates able to resume training rides, though the infection was described as unpleasant. Giddings’ situation is not unique among British riders recently called up at short notice to Grand Tours; examples include Thomas Gloag at the 2023 Giro and Finlay Pickering at the 2025 Vuelta a España. These instances highlight the unpredictable nature of professional cycling and the need for reserve riders to be prepared at all times. For Giddings, the opportunity represents a significant milestone in his career, offering the chance to complete his first Grand Tour and gain invaluable experience at the highest level of the sport. While he remains uncertain about his specific responsibilities within the team, he is eager to embrace the challenge and test his form over the coming weeks. His pragmatic approach and readiness to adapt underline the resilience required to succeed in professional cycling’s demanding environment.