As is so often the case in major stage races, the Giro Next Gen 2023 will kick off with a tricky individual time trial, which will provide the first indications as to what to expect of the next few days. Start and finish will be in Agliè, a small town built on the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Alladium.

The riders will tackle a total of 9.4 kilometres, making this a very fast test suitable for ITT specialists. It consists of long straight stretches joined by a few bends, the only pitfall is the final kilometre, which climbs steadily at 4-5%. The finish line is located at the undisputed symbol of the town, the Ducal Castle, recognised as one of the most beautiful Savoy residences in Piedmont, especially in summer.

The climbers targeting the general classification will have to focus on not losing too much ground, but those fit for short solo efforts against the clock will surely try to gain a few seconds, which are always welcome. Thus, watch out for Jumbo-Visma, with Per Stand Hagenes and Johannes Staune-Mittet who certainly wouldn’t mind gaining a small GC margin straight from day one. When it comes to time trials though, Alec Segaert (Lotto Dsnty Devo), European champion and reigning vice-champion in the speciality, immediately springs to mind.

Luke Lamperti (Trinity Racing), Aivaras Mikutis, Fabian Weiss (Tudor U23), Jonathan Vervenne (Souda-QuickStep Devo), Hamish McKenzie (ARA|Skip Capital), Jan Christen, Darren Rafferty (Hagens Berman Axeon), Thibaud Gruel (Groupama-FDJ), Vlad Van Mechelen and Enzo Leijnse (Devo Team DSM) will also have high expectations.