Cycling star Remco Evenepoel was happy to swap the world champion's jersey for the Maglia Rosa at the start of the 106th Giro d'Italia. "It's a nice change. I want to enjoy every moment in it. It's always something special to wear a jersey like this at a Grand Tour and to be recognised by the fans," said the 23-year-old exceptional rider after winning Saturday's time trial in impressive fashion.
The Belgian, often compared to the legend Eddy Merckx in his home country, dealt a heavy blow to the competition for Primoz Roglic right at the start. Roglic, a three-time Vuelta winner, was already 19 seconds behind in the first 6.3489 of 2.43 kilometres. Even two-time world time trial champion Filippo Ganna of Italy was distanced by 22 seconds. "The first mission has been accomplished. The pink jersey wasn't the main goal today, but it's a nice bonus. It's always good to start with a lead," added the youngster.
Who is supposed to stop Evenepoel in this form anyway? Just two weeks ago, he had shown his extra class with his superior triumph at the difficult classic Liège-Bastogne-Liège. Now followed the return to the Giro, where two years ago he had soberly abandoned his first attempt after 17 stages.
Evenepoel has long since become a world-class rider. He already won the Vuelta last year, now the Giro is to follow. And next year, the attack on the Tour throne is on the agenda. That's the plan.