Giro 2019 Favourites stage 2: First fast finishers showdown

The sprinters ought to have two opportunities to shine on the first two road stages in line on the Giro d'Italia. If they survive the steep Montalbano climb before the line, nothing should thwart a fast finishers showdown. (Slideshow route/profile)

Following a gentle route on rolling terrain the fast men ought to shine in the flat finish in Fucecchio. The Montalbano climb could shatter their dreams, although the 5.8 kilometres climb at 6.8% is crested with still 50 kilometres remaining. This should be enough to make it back. Another ascent – to San Baronto and with shallow gradients – is unlikely to cause problems and the last 25 kilometres are played out on the flat.

Elia Viviani was the most successful sprinter in last year’s Giro. He won four stages, thus equaling Fernando Gaviria’s score of 2017. Both riders venture into Italy this edition, while Caleb Ewan is also competing. Those are the stellar sprinters on the start list, but obviously they are not the only ones. Following Sam Bennett’s successful 2018 Giro campaign (three wins), BORA-hansgrohe plays a different card. German Champion Pascal Ackermann is their leader in the flat stages.

Favourites 2nd 2019 Giro d’Italia
*** Elia Viviani, Caleb Ewan
** Fernando Gaviria, Arnaud Démare
* Pascal Ackermann, Sacha Modolo, Giacomo Nizzolo

Check out the route of stage 2.