In 2020, the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix was dominated by the Dutch, who claimed the top four spots. The well-known Olav Kooij took the win, while Daan Hoole finished third. On Tuesday, the Dutchman triumphed in the individual time trial stage of the Giro d’Italia!
Each year, riders competing for victory in the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix – one of the most important races for U23 riders – go on to sign contracts with top-tier teams. Some of them, like Olav Kooij or Marijn van den Berg, make the most of their chances shortly after stepping up to the WorldTour, achieving wins in some of the cycling’s biggest races.
Others have to wait a bit longer for their breakthrough, but still play key roles within their teams. One such rider is Daan Hoole – a Dutchman from Lidl-Trek who, five years ago, along with his national teammates, dominated the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix by occupying the top four places. The Dutch squad first won the team time trial, then expertly led out their sprinter Olav Kooij.
Hoole finished third in that edition and, a year later, joined Trek-Segafredo (now Lidl-Trek) as a stagiaire. The American team recognized his talent and signed him to a full contract, which remains valid to this day. Since then, the Dutchman has competed in dozens of WorldTour races, primarily in a support role.
He found his strongest results in individual time trials – becoming national elite champion and narrowly missing out on a European Championship medal last year. In road races, he made use of his physical attributes and skills to become an essential part of the lead-out train for Jonathan Milan and Mads Pedersen.
Now, his moment has come. During this year’s Giro d’Italia, Hoole once again focused on helping Pedersen, who has already won three stages and leads the points classification. But on Tuesday, in the individual time trial, the Dutchman had the opportunity to race for himself.
He seized that chance – taking his first career stage victory in a Grand Tour, finishing ahead of some of the world’s top time trialists, including Joshua Tarling.
“I can’t believe it – it’s an incredible feeling. I want to thank so many people. I always get my chance in time trials, and the team supports me a lot in that. I had my eyes on this stage and felt really good, but I didn’t expect to win. Winning a stage in the Giro d’Italia is absolutely special” said Daan Hoole after the victory.
“ORLEN Nations Grand Prix is more than just racing – it’s a chance for young riders to showcase their talent, gain experience, and start the path that can lead to the WorldTour” said Czesław Lang, General Director of the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix.
Events like the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix are crucial for U23 cyclists, especially in an era of increasing professionalization in cycling. They offer the chance to compete against peers from around the world and gain valuable experience that can pay off at the WorldTour level.
