They've challenged each other directly in previous Grand Tours but never at the Giro d'Italia. Alejandro Valverde is ready for his first start in the Corsa Rosa, a race that Vincenzo Nibali has fought five previous times, the last time in 2013, when he emerged as final GC winner.
Q: Nibali, what emotions do you feel about participating in the Giro two years after your victory in 2013?
A: It will be very emotional because I think that all the fans are waiting for me. I will be highly determined. This Giro course is fascinating and perfectly suited to my characteristics, I want to face it in the best possible way.
Q: Valverde, how do you feel about racing the Giro for the first time in your career?
A: I'm extremely excited and very motivated. It's a beautiful race and I want to compete at best of my possibilities to reach the highest goal.
Q: Nibali, who are your main rivals for the final victory?
A: There are many rivals and a few outsiders. I'm thinking about Esteban Chavez, a very strong young rider, and then of course Valverde, a very strong and consolidated opponent. There will be more of course.
Q: And for you, Valverde?
A: There will be many, many rivals. Nibali, of course, will be the most difficult one to beat but I have to mention Dumoulin, Chaves, Uran and others who will be very strong. We are here to wage battle everyday.
Q: Nibali, how can you win a second victory in a Grand Tour?
A: I don't know, I'll find out! This is going to be a very difficult Giro. You live a Grand Tour day by day, studying the course and the key points. Winning a second one is never easy but the experience I have accumulated in the Grand Tours that I rode and won could play out as a big advantage for me.
Q: The Giro has historically been a successful race for Spanish riders. Just to name two of them, think about Indurain and Contador. Is it an additional motivation for Valverde?
A: More than a motivation, I'm really proud of the great Spanish results at the Giro. I personally like the race and the country a lot and I want to do my best for me and for my team.
Q: Valverde, do you have a message for all the cycling and Giro fans?
A: I would like to wish all my best to all the cycling fans, in particular the Giro d'Italia ones. I'm very happy to be here with you.
Q: A message from Nibali to all the cycling and Corsa Rosa fans?
A: I hope I will give you a lot of fun. Follow the Giro d’Italia because it's the most loved and the most beautiful race in the world. I'm waiting for you, my best wishes. An one recommendation: turn all the Giro roads pink!