Jonathan Milan Prepares for Tour
A Promising Rookie in Lille
Jonathan Milan, the 24-year-old Italian sprinter from Tolmezzo, is set to make his Tour de France debut with the Lidl–Trek team from July 5 to 27, 2025. Known for his explosive speed, Milan will serve as the team’s lead sprinter and has his sights set on a strong performance right from stage 1 in Lille .
A Clear Focus on Sprint Success
Milan isn’t just joining the Tour; he’s aiming high. His team has given him the spotlight in fast finishes especially the opening day. Contextual analysts and Lidl–Trek’s sport director, Steven DeJongh, believe Milan is among the top contenders for the first yellow jersey .
From Track to Tour: A Rapid Rise
His journey to cycling’s biggest stage has been impressive:
- Olympic gold in the team pursuit (Tokyo 2020)
- World titles in the team and individual pursuit (2021, 2024)
- Four stage wins and back-to-back points jerseys at the Giro d’Italia (2023–2024) .
At just 24, Milan is rapidly becoming a top figure in sprint cycling.
Stage 1: Navigating the Fast Route
Stage 1 in Lille spans 185 km and includes small climbs at Col de Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, Mont Cassel, and Mont Noir — staged for a sprinter’s showdown. With long straight roads and a technical finale, it’s seen as a golden opportunity — especially for riders like Milan and favorite Tim Merlier .
Team Strategy and Support
Lidl–Trek is backing Milan with a strong lead-out train. Riders like Jasper Stuyven, Simone Consonni, and Edward Theuns will work to position him perfectly for the sprint. The Plan Is Clear: set him up to Challenge top Competitors Such as Merlier, Jasper Philipsen, And Biniam Girmay .
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Pressure, Focus, and Preparation
Milan Acknowledged the Pressure in His first Tour But Emphasized his Focus On Staying calm and Prepared. Speaking in Udine Before Heading to France, He said: “There is a bit of pressure, but we have to stay calm and take it day by day” . In a recent Lidl–Trek All Access feature, he added: “I try to take everything day by day and focus on being in the best shape”.
Why This Moment Matters
Milan’s debut highlights a dramatic shift: Lidl–Trek has chosen him over established sprinter Mads Pedersen, signaling trust in the young Italian to lead their sprint efforts . With more sprinter-friendly stages in this Tour than in recent years, Milan not only can fight for green jersey points, but also contend for stage wins and possibly wear yellow in Lille.
Final Thoughts: On the Cusp of Cycling Stardom
All signs point to an electrifying debut for Jonathan Milan at this year’s Tour de France. From Olympic success to Giro honors, he brings blazing speed and quiet confidence. With a strong team behind him and a clear target in stage 1, Milan isn’t just participating he’s ready to shine.
If he hits his stride, fans may witness a young sprinting phenom claim yellow from day one. Cycling’s next star could just be coming into view one lightning-fast sprint at a time.