Route: With the long time trial to come tomorrow, the main contenders won't figure prominently on this stage. A sprint is a strong possibility, especially as there aren't too many chances left for the fastmen, but a long break by riders well off the pink jersey pace is more likely.
Local hero: We're heading into Liguria, the home region of Petacchi. Winner of a staggering nine stages at the 2004 Giro, "Ale-Jet" will be hoping to be at his best against the new generation of sprinters as the bunch speeds into Arenzano.
Procycling's top tip: The Turchino's not tough, but this still looks a good stage for a successful breakaway move. Savio is sure to have one of his Diquigiovanni men in there, and we like the look of the precocious Francesco Ginanni.
Savio speaks: The Arenzano (Genova) stage is one for the sprinters, arriving in Liguria on the seaside. It is a tourist zone where you can have a nice plate of fish and Trofiette Genovese.
Stage map
Stage profile
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Itzulia Basque Country stage 1 LIVE - World Tour stage race begins with time trial
A 13.9km time trial to open proceedings -
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Itzulia Basque Country 2026: stage 1 time trial start times
First rider down the start ramp leaves at 1430 local time for 13.8 kilometre test
