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Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers) celebrated on the stage 3 podium at Volta ao Algarve after winning that 19.5km individual time trial. | Credit: Getty Images
Filippo Ganna, the star cyclist from Ineos Grenadiers, is poised to compete in the opening time trial of the Tirreno-Adriatico on Monday. Despite a recent upset in the cycling world that gained attention in La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ganna remains the top favorite for victory.
As a four-time winner of the Tirreno-Adriatico time trials, Ganna has consistently proven his prowess on this prestigious event. With 37 career victories under his belt, 30 of which are time trials, he clearly knows how to perform under pressure.
In the absence of rival Remco Evenepoel, Ganna’s main competitors include Isaac del Toro from UAE Team Emirates-XRG, Jonathan Milan from Lidl-Trek, and Primož Roglič from Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, who is making his season debut. Each presents a unique challenge ahead of Ganna as he strives for the title.
During a media event on Sunday, Ganna appeared calm and focused alongside fellow contenders. After recently clinching the time trial title at the Volta ao Algarve, he is eager to kick off his preparation for Milan-San Remo and the cobbled Classics with a strong start.
“I aim to make headlines, but hopefully not for losing,” Ganna stated confidently. He recalled a narrow defeat two years ago, emphasizing his determination to reclaim his spot at the top.
In the lead-up to the time trial, Ganna and his teammates conducted training sessions on the course and even scoped out the Giro d’Italia time trial route, which spans similar terrain. Ganna expressed the importance of preparation, stating, “Every time trial is a challenge, whether short or long; they all demand hard work.”
“The challenge this week is to maintain focus and performance, despite the weather conditions,” he added. Ganna acknowledged the likelihood of rain, which could complicate the races and the preparations for the Milan-San Remo.
Filippo Ganna (right) among the athletes at the Top Riders Press Conference holding the trident trophy prior to the 2026 Tirreno-Adriatico | Credit: Getty Images
Ganna lightened the mood at the Top Riders Press Conference by playfully picking up the Tirreno-Adriatico winner’s trident trophy for a photo, showcasing his readiness to take on the competition.
Having finished second overall last year, Ganna acknowledges the significance of pacing himself this season. “I may not be at my peak yet, but that’s intentional. I’m striving for optimal performance in the spring races like Milan-San Remo,” he noted.
This strategic approach indicates that Ganna values a staggered build-up, allowing him to compete effectively without burning out early in the season. As rain looms over the race days, the cyclists must navigate the challenges that come with inclement weather.
“I’ve seen how quickly illness can derail performance in tough conditions,” Ganna recalled. “Let’s hope for a favorable outcome at Tirreno this year.” Aiming for resilience as much as performance, Ganna seeks to find the right balance in his training and racing schedule.
