Filippo Ganna fulfilled his favorite role in the first stage of the Tirreno-Adriatico on Monday. The two-time world champion was by far the fastest in a rainy time trial over 11.5 kilometers in Lido di Camaiore, Italy.
Ganna was in a class of his own crossing the line in 12 minutes and 28 seconds. The 26-year-old Italian thus dived far below the time of Lennard Kämna, who was almost half a minute slower. The third place was for the American talent Magnus Sheffield (12.59).
Only the fastest three riders managed to complete their race against the clock within thirteen minutes. With Thymen Arensman (sixth) and Wilco Kelderman (tenth), there were also two Dutchmen in the top ten.
The Tirreno-Adriatico started in recent years with an individual time trial in Lido di Camaiore, near the Tyrrhenian Sea. Last year, the flat opening stage was also a prey for time trial specialist Ganna.
Several riders start their road season in the Tirreno. So is Primoz Roglic. The Slovenian had not taken action after the Vuelta a España, in which he gave up. He then underwent surgery on his injured shoulder. Roglic would actually start his season in Spain, but was still fit enough for the Tirreno.
The Tirreno-Adriatico continues on Tuesday with a flat ride of 210 kilometers to Follonica. The Italian stage race will last until Sunday. Last year, the overall victory went to Tadej Pogacar, who will participate in Paris-Nice this year.
