Despite failing to win stages at Tirreno-Adriatico, Mathieu van der Poel arrives at the start of the first Monument of the season, Milan-Sanremo, with a solid week of racing in his legs and more than positive feelings .

The Alpecin-Deceuninck rider showed improving form in the 'Race of the Two Seas', taking third and second place in stages 4 and 5, after starting the 2025 season with a victory at the Samyn Classic.

Objective: Historic double

The Dutchman is aiming to claim his second Classicissima , after his triumph in 2023, and to give Alpecin-Deceuninck their third consecutive victory after contributing to teammate Jasper Philipsen 's success last year.

'Of course, I would have liked to win a stage at Tirreno, but I stayed healthy and that was the most important thing for the Classics,' Van der Poel said. 'I found the percentages I was looking for. It was a very good week.'

Targeted preparation

Van der Poel opted not to make the traditional Poggio reconnaissance this week, preferring to return to Belgium for final training before the nearly 300km race. ' I know the Poggio well from previous years, now it's important to pace yourself,' he explained.

Rivals to watch out for

The Dutch champion has identified the main opponents for Saturday: 'Ganna has shown himself to be one of the big favourites, Pedersen is in great form as we saw in Paris-Nice, and of course there is Pogacar.' The team tactics will be similar to last year, with Philipsen as a valid alternative in case of a group finish.