Jarno Widar speaks in monosyllabic ways, and sometimes when he answers journalists' questions it seems like he's doing you a favor. The smile is the same one we have learned to know last year on the streets of Giro Next Gen when the young Belgian lined up everyone without too many compliments. Even before moving up to the under 23s, the strength of Jarno Widar had emerged at the Giro della Lunigiana, when he was the undisputed star of the first two semi-stages. A strength and solidity that has often led him to win since he was very young.
The stigmata of the predestined who, however, is not immune to bad days. Last year, after dominating the Alpes Isere Tour, at Giro Next Gen and that of the Valle d'Aosta he seemed to be on his way to conquering the Tour de l'Avenir. At the French stage race, however, he collapsed inexorably and this small misstep was enough to undermine his confidence. and the trust in the project that the Lot had sewn it onto him (opening photo Alexis Dancerelle/DirectVelo).
More convinced
Having averted premature farewells and strengthened his relationship with the team, Jarno Widar has resumed 2025 with some changes, but not the results. After an initial block of races with the professional team he went back on the same steps he took last year to prepare the Giro Next Gen, in which he will return to defend the title he won in Forlimpopoli.
«I feel pretty good – he says – I think I'm ready to start this race. Giro Next Gen It's a big goal but not the most important one of the year. Overall the preparation went well, we were at altitude with the team and then once I got home I worked on changes of pace and high intensity."
Have you already thought about a tactic for the race?
We like to attack, so we'll probably try to do that. But maybe I'm saying too much.
Who do you think are the main rivals of this Giro Next Gen?
Nordhagen and Lorenzo Finn. There is also Albert Whiten Philipsen to keep under controlBut I feel ready and confident. What else can I say? I'll do my best., this is the most important thing. Only then can I look back happy.
What's the biggest lesson you took home from the past year?
Don't make me sick at the most important moments.
You're entering a period where you showed great things last year. Do you feel pressured to repeat yourself?
No, I don't get stressed at all. The pressure for me will come later I think and that's when I'll worry a little more.I'm calm right now. I'm amazed at my abilities, and having achieved excellent results is further motivating.
How did you prepare for this? Giro Next Gen?
We spent some time at high altitude in the Sierra Nevada. It was my first time at altitude this year. but I've always found this type of training very good.
Have you looked at the route, what do you think?
The initial time trial will be a good test. This type of testing has certainly never been my strong point but we worked on it good in this last period. Then other key stages will be the third, the seventh, and the final one in Pinerolo.
