Nibali braces for tough ride

DEFENDING champion Vincenzo Nibali said rivals and a “terrible” third week schedule of the Giro d’Italia will test him as he targets a third pink jersey in the 100th edition of the race.

Less than two weeks after the death of former Astana teammate Michele Scarponi, Nibali is expected to honour the 37-year-old’s memory by conquering his third Giro title when racing starts in two days.

“It’ll be a long challenge with a lot of unknowns,” Nibali said ahead of the opening 206km stage.