By winning the Giro d'Italia, Jonas Vingegaard has had his strongest Tour de France preparation yet – but we still have no idea how he'll compare with Tadej Pogačar

Jonas Vingegaard’s recent triumph at the Giro d’Italia marks a significant milestone in his preparation for the upcoming Tour de France, highlighting what many consider his strongest build-up yet. By securing the Giro title, Vingegaard not only joined the elite group of riders who have won all three Grand Tours but also demonstrated remarkable consistency and strategic racing. His approach to the Giro was measured and efficient, focusing on securing overall victory without overextending himself, which contrasts with previous years where his preparation was disrupted by crashes and injuries. Despite this achievement, the ongoing comparison between Vingegaard and his rival Tadej Pogačar remains unavoidable. The two have defined Grand Tour racing for much of the past five years, with Pogačar often seen as the benchmark against whom Vingegaard is measured. Although Vingegaard’s Giro success is substantial, it is still viewed in the shadow of Pogačar’s record, reflecting a somewhat one-sided rivalry in public perception. Both riders, however, maintain a mutual respect and appear uninterested in fuelling media-driven comparisons, focusing instead on their own performances and achievements. Vingegaard’s form heading into the Tour de France is arguably better than in previous years, bolstered by victories at Paris-Nice and the Volta a Catalunya earlier in the season. His physical condition appears robust, free from injury, and his mental state is described as calm and confident following a smooth Giro campaign. This combination of physical readiness and psychological composure could prove crucial in the intense competition expected at the Tour, where he will face Pogačar for the sixth consecutive time. The implications of Vingegaard’s Giro win for the Tour de France remain uncertain, however. While his current form suggests he is in a strong position to challenge Pogačar, the level of competition at the Tour is typically higher, and Pogačar’s dominance in previous editions cannot be overlooked. Vingegaard’s measured approach and confidence gained from the Giro may give him an edge, but how this translates to the mountainous and tactical battles of the Tour will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Ultimately, the rivalry promises another compelling chapter in one of cycling’s defining duels.