‘Now is when the really decisive days begin’ – Vincenzo Nibali weighs in on Giro d’Italia general classification battle

The 2026 Giro d’Italia is reaching a pivotal phase as the race approaches the challenging Valle d’Aosta region and the demanding final week. With the general classification still closely contested, former Giro winner Vincenzo Nibali has weighed in on the battle for the maglia rosa. Nibali expressed strong confidence that Jonas Vingegaard, currently second overall and trailing the race leader Afonso Eulalio by 33 seconds, will ultimately claim the pink jersey in Rome. However, he emphasised that the decisive moments of the race are yet to unfold, signalling that the competition remains wide open. Jonas Vingegaard, riding for Visma-Lease a Bike, has demonstrated his climbing prowess with two stage wins on summit finishes but faced difficulties in the lengthy 42km time trial, losing over a minute to Thymen Arensman. Nibali acknowledged the challenge posed by such a long time trial and suggested that Vingegaard’s strategy might involve pacing himself carefully, especially with the Tour de France looming in five weeks where he is expected to face Tadej Pogačar. Despite this, Nibali expressed a desire to see Vingegaard make a bold, race-defining attack to assert his dominance before the Giro concludes. Attention also falls on Vingegaard’s rivals, with Nibali highlighting Felix Gall as a strong contender who could emerge as the best of the rest by the race’s end. Gall’s consistent climbing and solid team support position him well to challenge for a high overall placing. Meanwhile, Italian hopes rest on Giulio Pellizzari, who has struggled with illness after an ambitious attempt to follow Vingegaard on an earlier stage. Now recovered and sitting ninth overall, Pellizzari is encouraged by Nibali to take risks and aim for a significant impact in the latter stages of the race. Nibali’s insights underline the tactical complexity and physical demands of the Giro as it enters its final, decisive days. With several riders poised to make their moves, the race remains unpredictable, promising dramatic shifts in the general classification. As Vingegaard balances his ambitions between the Giro and the Tour de France, the coming stages will be crucial in shaping the narrative of this year’s Corsa Rosa.