Plugge hits back after Riis criticism of Visma media decision around Vingegaard

Riis had questioned Visma’s choice not to hold a formal press conference on Monday, arguing that media duties are part of leading a Grand Tour, particularly for a rider like Jonas Vingegaard. 

While Visma riders did speak informally with journalists, Vingegaard himself was unavailable.

Plugge dismissed the criticism outright. “I read some things on Feltet, which I think is a respected outlet,” he said. “That’s why I think you should get analysts of the same standard," said Plugge. 

“You need people who understand modern cycling, otherwise Feltet risks becoming a laughing stock within the peloton.”

Riis, now working as an analyst for Feltet, had argued that rest days still matter commercially because sponsors expect visibility throughout a three-week race. Plugge saw little issue there.

“If a sponsor’s interest in us depended on one interview on a rest day, that would be a big problem,” he said.

The Visma boss instead pointed toward the demands of the race itself. The team arrived late after a long transfer following stage 9 and have spent much of the Giro trying to keep Vingegaard insulated from unnecessary stress, particularly after the crashes and nervous racing in Bulgaria.

“Jonas is our sole captain, and we will do everything to get him on the top of the podium in Rome,” Plugge said.

The Dutchman also pushed back against comparisons with other sports where star athletes are routinely expected to face the media.

“The difference is that we race every day for three weeks,” he said. “Sunday evening Jonas already gave a lot of interviews after the stage.”

The dispute has become one of the more visible off-bike flashpoints of the Giro’s opening week, with Riis repeatedly questioning Visma’s controlled, risk-averse approach compared to more aggressive racing styles.

For now, both sides remain fixed in their positions, with Visma focused on protecting their GC lead ambitions and Riis continuing to challenge their methods.