Vincenzo Nibali
DOB: 14/11/1984 (29 Years Old)
Nationality: Italian
Race History:
TdF - 3rd (2012)
Vuelta - 1st (2010), 2nd (2013)
Giro - 1st (2013), 2nd (2011), 3rd (2010)
20
Background:
At this moment in time, cycling is going through a phase where marginal gains and following a strict sequence of numbers and graphs just to secure a 3rd placed finish is common place. However, Vincenzo Nibali is a throwback to times gone past, an idealist at heart whose desire to win is unrivalled. Vincenzo is not a man who is happy to simply secure a contract renewing podium finish, but a rider who lives for the thrill of the pursuit towards victory.
Last year, saw Nibali win what many riders describe as the tougher of the 3 grand tours when he surged to victory in the Giro d’Italia, producing some fine displays along the way. None more so than stage 20 where Nibali emerged from blizzard on Tre Cime di Lavaredo to all but seal the overall win in front of his adoring ‘Tifosi’.
Nibali’s raw desire and passion to win bike races, has lead to many impressive victories throughout his career, such as the 2010 Vuelta and last years Giro along side, equally as many memorable pursuits and failures like the 2012 Liege-Bastogne-Liege or the 2013 World Championships.
Strengths:
Nibali is a rider who excels when races get towards the mountains. He’s not just a competent rider going uphill, but he’s one of the strongest in the peleton at going downhill too. He’s become notorious for his fearless attitude and exception descending skills and the Italian is more than willing to use this as a weapon to distance himself from his
nearest rivals. Another spoke in Nibali’s wheel (excuse the pun) is his ability to produce the goods when the weather takes a turn for the worst (as we saw in the Giro last Spring)… if ever there is a day when the terrain is a little tricky and the weather closes in, the Sicilian could well take some time from his nearest challengers.