The first day of Milan: “I’m super excited”

Johnny, first of all: how are you?

I’m good and I’m very happy with the path towards my debut. I had a good winter, focused on recovery and discovering the new Team. Since the last race in China in mid-October, I’ve experienced three important moments to get familiar with the Lidl-Trek environment. The team camp in the US and then the two training camps in Spain. I was able to get to know teammates and staff, test the materials, and talk about my schedule and preparation. It was enjoyable and constructive. Of course I also spent many hours riding my new Trek Madone, but compared to the past I did it with less pressure, less stress in view of the debut. Let’s say I took it a bit easier than in the past, but that doesn’t mean I’m any less ready for it.

How’s your spirit ahead of Volta Valenciana?

I feel great motivation and confidence. It’s the first race of a new adventure and project, I’m super excited about it. My condition is not at the top, but as I mentioned, it was a very specific choice. My and the Team’s ambition is to reach the first peak condition for the Classics. Therefore, we needed a different approach to this season than in the past. Hence the desire for a quieter off season, with a plan to grow in intensity and quality. Volta Valenciana will tell me where I am at, where I need to improve and which aspects I need to focus on in the coming weeks.

Besides looking for a good result, is there a particular goal you have in mind?

Building the best possible feeling with my new teammates. For a rider with my characteristics, the support of the team is essential to aim high. In the training camps we always trained together and simulated how to handle the key moments of sprints. These were constructive moments, but now we face the first test in a race context. The sprint is a mechanism that cannot be built with a snap of the fingers. It takes time, especially for riders who have never raced together on the road. We have to refine the mechanisms and it is only by racing that we can become as one. We have the potential to build a great train. The desire to start well is strong in everyone and that is what motivates me the most. I am optimistic about doing well right from the start.

You’ll pin the number after a great season. Are you ready for a new challenge?

I must be! The first race of the year also serves to break the ice in the competition with the other riders, there is mutual curiosity in seeing each other at work, as well as the desire to try to put the wheel in front of everyone. But beyond the challenge with the others, what interests me most is to set the focus on myself, on my Team and our improvement.

How will your season continue?

After Volta Valenciana, a training block will follow, then comes the first taste of Belgium with the Opening Weekend. In March I will race Tirreno-Adriatico and Milano-Sanremo, before moving North again for a full immersion of Classics, from Gent-Wevelgem to Paris-Roubaix. It’s an ambitious and demanding calendar, which I intend to tackle step by step. I want to grow and learn; that’s what the Team is also asking of me.