Mathieu van der Poel, the versatile Dutch cyclist renowned for his prowess across cyclo-cross, mountain biking, and road racing, is gearing up for the 2025 Giro d’Italia. Scheduled from May 9 to June 1, 2025, the Giro will commence in Durrës, Albania, and conclude in Rome, covering a total distance of 3,413.3 kilometers over 21 stages.
Van der Poel’s decision to participate in the Giro aligns with his strategic focus for the 2025 season. Reflecting on his experiences, he has indicated a possible absence from the Tour de France to revisit mountain biking, stating, “I think maybe it’s a good moment to try and get back on the mountain bike, if I have time. That’s still a big objective for me.”
In his previous Giro appearance, Van der Poel made a significant impact by winning the opening stage and donning the pink jersey. He described the experience as “incredible” and expressed satisfaction with achieving his primary goal. Despite not securing additional stage victories, his aggressive riding style and multiple breakaway attempts left a lasting impression on fans and competitors alike.
The 2025 Giro d’Italia route presents a challenging mix of terrains, including two individual time trials and five mountaintop finishes. Stages such as the 28.6 km individual time trial from Lucca to Pisa and the mountain stage from San Michele all’Adige to Bormio are expected to test riders’ endurance and versatility.
Van der Poel’s participation is anticipated to add a dynamic element to the race, especially in stages that suit his explosive power and technical skills. His presence also raises intriguing prospects for stage wins, particularly in hilly and flat stages where his sprinting and breakaway capabilities can be fully utilized.
As the cycling world looks forward to the 2025 Giro d’Italia, Mathieu van der Poel’s preparation and strategic choices will be closely watched. His commitment to diversifying his cycling portfolio, including a potential return to mountain biking, underscores his versatility and ambition in the sport. Fans and analysts alike eagerly await his performance in the upcoming Giro, expecting thrilling displays of athleticism and competitive spirit.
