Milan-Sanremo 2026: Lotto-Intermarché Faces Challenges, Van der Poel Leads Alpecin-Deceuninck
Saturday’s Milan-Sanremo marks the first major monument of the 2026 cycling season. Several teams have announced their lineups, revealing key strategies and unexpected absences as riders prepare for the challenging race.
Lotto-Intermarché’s Strategy Shift
Lotto-Intermarché will be without Lennert Van Eetvelt, who is still recovering from a crash during Strade Bianche and a subsequent withdrawal from Tirreno-Adriatico. The team also won’t have Arnaud De Lie, who is focusing on the upcoming Flemish races. This leaves Jenno Berckmoes as the designated leader for the Belgian squad.
Berckmoes will be supported by fellow Belgians Liam Slock and Luca Van Boven, along with Dutch rider Huub Artz, Italian Lorenzo Rota, and Germans Georg Zimmerman and Jonas Rutsch. The team’s altered lineup suggests a strategy centered around opportunistic riding rather than a clear leadership contender.
Pro Tip: When a team loses key riders due to injury or strategic choices, seem for riders who might seize the opportunity to step up and demonstrate their potential.
Alpecin-Deceuninck’s Strong Contenders
Alpecin-Deceuninck arrives with a formidable lineup led by Mathieu van der Poel, considered a top favorite for the race. Alongside him will be sprinter Jasper Philipsen, capable of contesting a bunch sprint if the race unfolds favorably.
Van der Poel will be supported by Silvan Dillier, Michael Gogl, Tim Marsman, Edward Planckaert, and Emiel Verstrynge, providing a well-rounded team capable of controlling the race and setting up their leaders for success.
Other Team Strategies
UAE Team Emirates will rely on Tadej Pogacar, supported by Isaac del Toro, Jan Christen, Brandon McNulty, Florian Vermeersch, Domen Novak and Felix Grossschartner. Ineos Grenadiers are banking on Filippo Ganna, with support from Michal Kwiatkowski, Axel Laurance, Jack Haig, Joshua Tarling, Ben Turner and Connor Swift. Lidl-Trek will be without Jonathan Milan due to illness.
Impact of Recent Crashes and Illnesses
The absence of key riders like Van Eetvelt and Milan highlights the unpredictable nature of professional cycling. Crashes and illness can significantly alter team strategies and create opportunities for less-established riders to shine. Van Eetvelt’s injury, sustained during Strade Bianche, forced Lotto-Intermarché to adjust its plans for Milan-Sanremo.
FAQ
Q: Why is Lennert Van Eetvelt not participating in Milan-Sanremo?
A: He is still recovering from a crash at Strade Bianche and a subsequent withdrawal from Tirreno-Adriatico. The team is prioritizing his recovery for the remainder of the spring season.
Q: Who is the leader for Lotto-Intermarché in the absence of Van Eetvelt and De Lie?
A: Jenno Berckmoes will lead the team.
Q: Who are the key riders for Alpecin-Deceuninck?
A: Mathieu van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen are the key riders for Alpecin-Deceuninck.
Did you know? Milan-Sanremo is known as “La Primavera” (The Spring) and is often the first major classic race of the cycling season.
What are your predictions for Milan-Sanremo? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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