Bahrain Victorious are ready to take on the 61st edition of the GP Gippingen, Switzerland’s most prestigious one-day race (UCI 1.1), which takes place this Friday, June 13.

For six decades known as the “Grosser Preis des Kantons Aargau,” the race officially adopts its new name this year, although it is a moniker fans have been using for many years. The change strengthens the race’s geographic identity and its deep-rooted connection to the region’s cycling culture.

Although the start and finish have been in Leuggern since 2016, the new name continues to honour Gippingen, a locality within the municipality of Leuggern, in the Swiss canton of Argovia.

The traditional 175.4km course will test riders with four laps of a flat 8.1km circuit, followed by seven longer laps of 20.2km featuring the Rotberg climb, split into two parts (3km at 5% and 1.7km at 6.2%). With a total elevation gain of nearly 2,900 meters, the terrain sets the stage for a selective and unpredictable finale — especially under the forecasted hot conditions.

“This race represents not only a test of our current form after a longer break for most of our riders,” said Sports Director Michal Golas, “but also a real opportunity to go for a strong result. The parcours suits us well, and I believe we have options for different race scenarios.”

Matej Mohorič leads the team as he returns to competition after more than a month away. If the race is controlled, the Slovenian is expected to contest the final from a reduced group.

Finlay Pickering, coming off strong rides at the Tour de Romandie and especially the Tour of the Alps – where he claimed the King of the Mountains jersey – will be a key rider if the climbs prove decisive.

“Besides those two options,” added Golas, “we also have a sprinter in Nicolò Buratti, who is coming back from altitude camp and looks to be in good shape. He’ll be ready if it comes down to a reduced bunch sprint.”

Oliver Stockwell, Mathijs Paasschens, and Max van der Meulen complete the 6-man squad and will play crucial support roles over the rolling terrain — staying alert to dangerous moves and ensuring Bahrain Victorious stay well represented throughout.

“Apart from the hilly parcours and the circuit structure, which will naturally cause selection, I believe the heat will play a crucial role in further splitting the race as we approach the finale,” Golas concluded.