Vincenzo Nibali Urges Paul Seixas to Compete in 2027 Giro d'Italia

Following the official unveiling of the 2027 Giro d'Italia route in Rome, two-time race winner Vincenzo Nibali has publicly encouraged rising French star Paul Seixas to participate in the prestigious competition next year. The 110th edition of the race is scheduled to begin in Trieste on May 8 and conclude in Rome on May 30, featuring a demanding third week of high-altitude mountain stages.

Seixas, who currently rides for Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale, has expressed that competing in Italy is a distinct possibility for his 2027 season. The 20-year-old cyclist, who recently secured a victory at the Tour of Lombardy and finished fourth in his debut Tour de France, is currently evaluating his race calendar in coordination with his team management. His contract with the team is set to expire at the end of the 2027 season, adding a layer of professional uncertainty to his upcoming campaign.

In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Nibali expressed strong support for Seixas’s potential entry into the Italian Grand Tour. "If I were Paul Seixas, I would not hesitate for a second and would participate without hesitation," Nibali stated. The retired champion, known as the 'Shark of Messina,' noted that he was impressed by Seixas's performance at the Tour of Lombardy, asserting that the young rider possesses the necessary climbing speed and time-trial capability to challenge for the victory.

Nibali highlighted that the modern design of the 2027 Giro route, which balances traditional mountain passes like the Gavia and Mortirolo with a more strategic distribution of difficulty, would suit a rider of Seixas's profile. "The best climber will win, there is no doubt about that. I think he is ready to fight for the victory," Nibali added. He also noted that the race would serve as a significant test against other potential contenders, such as Tadej Pogacar, Jonas Vingegaard, and Remco Evenepoel.

For Seixas, the decision regarding his 2027 schedule involves balancing the pressure of high expectations with the need for strategic development. With the world championships taking place in France later in the season, the young rider is carefully considering whether to prioritize the Giro d'Italia or the Tour de France. Seixas emphasized that he is not burdened by his status as a top prospect, stating, "These are not things that weigh on me or distract me in my daily life as a rider."

The French cyclist remains reflective about his rapid ascent in the sport. After a successful 2026 season, he noted that his experience fighting for a podium position in his first Grand Tour provided invaluable lessons. "I am just happy to have started this adventure. I do not know where it will lead me, nobody knows that, by the way," Seixas remarked. As discussions with his team continue, the cycling world awaits a final decision on whether one of its brightest stars will take the start line in Trieste this coming May.