The Walloon rider will be making his debut in Italy, unlike at the Tour de France, which he already rode in 2024 and 2025. After a spring classics season, which was partly ruined by physical issues, he is looking to regain his rhythm at the three-week race, hoping to pick up some “easy” sprint victories. However, in light of his participation in the Tour de France in July, the intention is not for him to push himself too hard during the Giro.
De Lie, currently taking a short break after having a wisdom tooth removed, will first ride the Lotto Famenne Ardenne Classic in his home region on May 3, a race he has already won twice in 2023 and 2024. Between the Giro and the Tour, he is also scheduled to participate in the Tour de Suisse (June 17-21). The Belgian National Championships in Brasschaat (June 28) will be one of his major goals. Contrary to his earlier plans, De Lie is unlikely to ride either his home Tour de Wallonie, or the Copenhagen Sprint.