The German professional cyclist Emanuel Buchmann dampened expectations before the start of the 105th Giro d’Italia in Budapest.
“It would be a success for me if I got through well without a fall or illness. Then in the end there will be a good result that I’m satisfied with,” said Buchmann on Thursday: “I don’t want to be tied to an exact placement, whether the Giro was successful or not.”
In the German team Bora-hansgrohe, Buchmann is part of a trio. Buchmann, Wilco Kelderman (Netherlands) and Jai Hindley (Australia) share the captaincy and should give Bora a podium finish. However, the trio had to struggle with falls and illnesses in preparation, Buchmann was recently suffering from bronchitis.
“It’s an advantage to start with several captains. You have tactically very different options,” said Buchmann, who came fourth in the 2019 tour: “If I’m in a good mood, I can ride at the front. If not, then I can I support the others. It also takes a bit of pressure off.”
Since his success in the Grand Tours three years ago, Buchmann has been slowed down by falls and injuries. In Italy he is hoping for a new chance this year.
“The years weren’t completely wasted. In terms of results, little has changed. Normally I still have a few good years ahead of me, I’m still motivated,” said the 29-year-old. A start in the Tour of France in July is not currently planned, but it is likely to be used in the Vuelta in Spain.
Bora teammate Lennard Kämna is scheduled to help out at the Giro, but is also given his own freedom to hunt for stage wins. “I’ve set myself the goal of winning a stage. Of course,” said Kämna.