In professional cycling, the elusive Giro d’Italia and Tour de France double is a captivating feat. Marco Pantani last achieved it in 1998, and it continues to captivate fans and riders alike. However, Jens Voigt, a former cycling maestro known for his audacious racing style, sheds light on the rarity of this dual triumph. The cycling world eagerly anticipates the Paris Olympics 2024, set to showcase global cycling talent.
Voigt’s insights provide a valuable perspective, underscoring the evolving dynamics and heightened possibilities within professional cycling. This is especially true against the backdrop of the monumental Paris Olympics. But, will the 2024 Paris Olympics witness the crowning of a new cycling legend, as contenders strive to achieve the coveted Giro d’Italia and Tour de France double?
Aiming for Paris Olympics 2024
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Jens Voigt expresses his admiration for Tadej Pogacar, asserting that if anyone can break the streak, it’s the Slovenian sensation. Pogacar, a two-time Tour de France winner, brings a fearless and attacking style to the races. Voigt, while acknowledging the challenges posed by the back-to-back Giro and Tour, believes Pogacar’s youth, strong team support, and winning mindset position him as a formidable contender. However, Tadej Pogacar has announced his ambitious racing schedule for 2024. He planned to compete in both the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France and is also targeting the Paris Olympics 2024 and the World Championships.
On the other hand, Voigt said, “You lose those sharp accelerations and peaks but I think that it will be good for Geraint to do both the Giro and the Tour.” He sees the Welshman’s experience and transition into a ‘super domestique’ role at the Tour as a strategic move. Despite the changes in the ageing cyclist’s body, Voigt contends that Thomas’ ability to adapt and work hard could make the dual Grand Tour campaign a rewarding endeavor for him.
Cracking the Giro-Tour double code in the modern cycling era
Voigt draws attention to the era of ‘super petrol’ in the 1990s and 2000s. He hints at the challenges faced by riders attempting the Giro-Tour double during that period. The demanding nature of both races, with their unique terrains and challenges, made it a rare feat. However, according to Voigt, the landscape has changed. Science, training methodologies, and rider preparations have evolved significantly since his pro cycling days. This evolution makes the Giro-Tour double a plausible goal in the modern era.
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With advancements in training science, riders like Pogacar and Thomas can meticulously control various aspects of their preparation. VVoigt emphasizes that the era of relying on ‘super petrol’ has shifted towards a more scientific approach. This shift enables athletes to optimize their performance through careful weight management, energy input control, and precise training efforts. The evolution in training methodologies has transformed the once-daubed ‘impossible’ Giro-Tour double into an achievable ambition for today’s ride
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