After years of near-misses and professional dedication, Danish cyclist Johan Price-Pejtersen is finally set to realize his grand tour dream. The 26-year-old from Copenhagen will make his debut in one of cycling's three-week races when the Giro d'Italia kicks off on Friday, May 8th, in Bulgaria.
Price-Pejtersen has been a professional since 2018, starting with the Danish continental team Team Coloquick. His career reached a new level in 2022 when he secured a contract with the World Tour squad Bahrain Victorious. Despite competing at the highest level for several seasons, a spot in a grand tour had eluded him until now, making this selection a significant milestone.
His primary role within the Bahrain Victorious team will be to provide crucial support for Australian sprinter Kaden Groves on the flatter stages. However, Price-Pejtersen also carries a personal objective. As a former U23 World Champion and double European Champion in the individual time trial, he has his sights firmly set on Stage 10 of the race—a demanding 42-kilometer battle against the clock that suits his strengths perfectly.
The rider expressed that the confirmation for this year's Giro came earlier than in previous seasons, giving him ample time to prepare mentally. He described the feeling as the culmination of five years of hard work and fighting for his place. He acknowledged that while the initial excitement of big races can feel like a dopamine rush, this debut carries a unique and welcome sense of anticipation.
Price-Pejtersen admits the prospect of 21 days of racing through Bulgaria and Italy is uncharted territory. He finds it difficult to pinpoint specific personal goals or predict highlights, preferring to take each day as it comes and hope for good surprises. His ultimate hope is to reach the finish line in Rome at the end of the month.
The Giro d'Italia begins on May 8th and concludes on May 31st in the Italian capital. Based on reporting from Sport | DR.