Italian sprint sensation Jonathan Milan, a key figure for Lidl-Trek, has been officially withdrawn from the 2025 Giro d’Italia, following a disciplinary dispute and reported internal tensions with team management. The decision comes in the wake of a controversial penalty during the 2024 edition of the race, casting a shadow over what had otherwise been a standout performance.

The 2024 Giro Controversy

During the final stage of the 2024 Giro d’Italia, Milan suffered a mechanical failure—a snapped chain just 9 kilometers from the finish line. What followed was a frantic effort to rejoin the peloton. Race footage revealed Milan drafting behind the team car for an extended period, a maneuver that breaches UCI regulations against slipstreaming.

Although he went on to win the stage—his third of the race—and secure the points jersey, the UCI fined him 200 Swiss Francs, deducted 10 points from the points classification, and docked 15 UCI ranking points.

Lidl-Trek defended their rider at the time, arguing that the drafting incident occurred under pressure and did not offer a decisive advantage. Nevertheless, the sanction stood.

A Rift Behind the Scenes

Initially, Milan and Lidl-Trek appeared united in their response to the penalty. However, sources now suggest that tensions developed over how the incident was managed internally. Milan reportedly felt unsupported during UCI hearings and was dissatisfied with the team’s public stance.

A source close to the team said, “The atmosphere changed after that Giro stage. There were differences in how the incident was handled publicly and internally. Jonathan felt exposed.”

This internal tension appears to have influenced the team’s decision to exclude Milan from the 2025 Giro lineup.

Official Withdrawal

In a short statement last week, Lidl-Trek confirmed Milan’s absence from the race:

“After careful consideration, Lidl-Trek has decided not to include Jonathan Milan in the 2025 Giro d’Italia squad. The decision reflects our current strategic priorities and internal planning.”

Behind the scenes, however, insiders suggest the move is more about unresolved friction than strategy.

Impact on Milan’s Career

At just 24, Milan is one of Italy’s brightest cycling prospects. His sprinting ability and consistency have drawn comparisons to riders like Fernando Gaviria and Caleb Ewan. Being left out of his home Grand Tour is a significant blow.

Milan responded on social media:

“Not the Giro I was hoping for this year. I’ll be back stronger—on and off the bike.”

Rumors of a potential team transfer in 2026 have already begun circulating, with several WorldTour teams reportedly interested if tensions with Lidl-Trek persist.

Broader Implications

Milan’s exclusion raises broader questions about how race regulations are enforced and the internal dynamics of professional teams. While rules exist for fairness, their interpretation can be contentious—especially in critical race moments.

As the 2025 Giro d’Italia rolls on, Milan’s absence will be keenly felt—by fans, fellow riders, and the Italian cycling community alike.