{"id":11088,"date":"2026-10-11T03:33:29","date_gmt":"2026-10-11T03:33:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/velomag.eu\/beyond-the-top-honest-reflections-on-our-lombardy-journey\/"},"modified":"2026-10-11T03:33:29","modified_gmt":"2026-10-11T03:33:29","slug":"beyond-the-top-honest-reflections-on-our-lombardy-journey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/velomag.eu\/nl\/beyond-the-top-honest-reflections-on-our-lombardy-journey\/","title":{"rendered":"Beyond the Top: Honest Reflections on Our Lombardy Journey"},"content":{"rendered":"

In the 120th edition of Il Lombardia, Visma | Lease a Bike’s aggressive strategy failed to yield a top-15 finish, with Matteo Jorgenson, Davide Piganzoli, and Ben Tulett finishing 16th, 18th, and 23rd respectively. (sportschau.de<\/a>)<\/p>\n

The race’s pivotal moment occurred on the ascent to Madonna del Ghisallo, where Jorgenson initiated a decisive attack, leading to a significant selection in the peloton. However, the breakaway group he formed was swiftly reeled in. On the penultimate climb, the favourites’ group fragmented, with Piganzoli and Tulett finishing within the top 20 but failing to make an impact during the critical phases of the race. (teamvismaleaseabike.com<\/a>)<\/p>\n

Reflecting on the team’s performance, Head of Racing Marc Reef stated, “It was a very fair race. We had the plan to try with Matteo. He was well launched by Louis, but the difference was ultimately not made.” He further noted, “The finale was very fair, and it quickly became clear on the Civiglio that Ben and Davide did not have the legs to compete for the win. Nevertheless, I look back on the past week with a positive feeling, in which we as a team have shown ourselves strongly.” (teamvismaleaseabike.com<\/a>)<\/p>\n

Despite the absence of five-time defending champion Tadej Poga\u010dar, the 2026 Il Lombardia was highly competitive, with Paul Seixas of Decathlon CMA CGM Team securing victory. (sportschau.de<\/a>)<\/p>\n

Visma | Lease a Bike’s proactive approach in the race underscored their commitment to a dynamic racing style, even though the desired results were not achieved. The team’s performance in the autumn classics, including victories at the Giro dell’Emilia and the Tour of Luxembourg, highlights their potential for future success. (cyclingflash.com<\/a>)<\/p>\n

Highlights:<\/h2>\n