<\/p>\n
\u201cIn 2012, time bonuses were decisive in Ryder Hesjedal\u2019s victory over Joaquim Rodriguez, with only 16 seconds between them. With the Red Bull KM, tactical management of the race will be even more important to prevent riders with GC ambitions from passing under the second arch too many times in the top three positions.\u201d<\/p>\n
Bonus seconds set to shape early race<\/p>\n
That emphasis on control and positioning becomes even more relevant when placed against the structure of this year\u2019s route. The 2026 Giro is expected to hold its most decisive mountain stages until the final week, meaning the opening phases could see riders fighting for gains wherever they are available.<\/p>\n
For Nibali, that makes the Red Bull kilometre particularly influential in the first part of the race, where gaps are still minimal and every second counts. \u201cIn the opening stages, the bonus seconds are crucial because even the smallest gaps make a difference, so sprinters could be forced to do almost a double sprint.\u201d<\/p>\n
That dynamic has the potential to reshape even the most straightforward days on paper. Sprint stages are no longer purely the domain of the fastest finishers, while general classification teams may be forced to commit resources earlier in the finale to avoid conceding time.<\/p>\n
Blockhaus to reveal early contenders<\/p>\n
Despite the increased importance of bonus seconds, Nibali still expects the overall shape of the race to follow a familiar pattern, with the hardest climbing tests coming later in the Giro. However, he highlighted the early summit finish at Blockhaus as a key moment in establishing the hierarchy among the favourites.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think it will be similar to the 2025 edition because the hardest stages will come at the end. However, the Blockhaus will require excellent condition even in the first part of the race. It is a real climb. I wouldn\u2019t say it will decide the Giro, but it will show which five or six riders can fight for the final victory.\u201d<\/p>\n