Nibali goes beyond Pogacar with call to rotate dates of all three Grand Tours

Speaking to MARCA, the 'Shark of Messina' shared his vision for the future of cycling's biggest races while reflecting on the Giro's economic impact and the possibility of Jonas Vingegaard completing cycling's triple crown.

Now serving as an ambassador for race organiser RCS, Nibali views the Italian Grand Tour through a different lens than during his racing days.

"The figures we saw at the forum show that we're no longer just talking about the sport or the athlete's performance, but what a Giro d'Italia, a Grand Tour, can contribute in terms of economic growth," Nibali explained. 

"The Bike Economy, infrastructure improvements, cycling paths around cities and beyond them, crossing mountainous areas and green spaces, are part of an ecosystem that promotes more common mobility for everyone."

When asked about Jonas Vingegaard's stated desire to compete for the Giro title, Nibali was enthusiastic about the prospect.

"It would be fantastic to see him next year at the Giro d'Italia. It's the last major race missing from his record and he would be the eighth rider to achieve the triple crown," said Nibali, who puts the chances of Vingegaard lining up at the Giro in 2026 at "50-50".

Nibali also reflected on Tadej Pogačar's suggestion to switch the Giro d'Italia and Vuelta a España, stressing how a change in dates could help solve some of the climatic challenges both races faces. 

"In Italy it is cold at that time of year and it is not unusual to find snow in areas like the Stelvio. Changing the dates could benefit Spain and its temperatures and leave the heat of September to us. Everything remains to be seen."

For Nibali, that discussion opens the door to a more radical rethink of the calendar than a simple swap. 

"The first Grand Tour of the year always has something special. The riders arrive with fresh legs and there is a lot of spectacle. It has always been that way. If it were up to me, I would go for a rotation of the three Grand Tours. It would make the season much more interesting."