In 2002, Jens Heppner was to date the only German to lead the Giro d'Italia in the famous maglia rosa for ten stages. On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of this feat, he is now planning to return to this race steeped in tradition – this time with the young Team NetApp.

Kelmis/Belgium – January 6, 2012. May 18, 2002 was no day for fair weather cyclists. In the cold and rain, a small group decided to break away in the Giro d'Italia. For Jens Heppner, at the time already a 37-year-old seasoned cyclist, this proved to be the greatest coup of his career. He reached the finish line with a five-minute lead, creating the perfect surprise: a German in the maglia rosa. 

"It was one of those days when everything was just right. I was known for having the will to assert myself. But then in the end being at the top of the podium in front of cheering fans was a huge surprise – even for me," Jens Heppner recalls.

The tifosi gave him a nickname in tribute to his fighting spirit: "osso duro" (hard bone). And in the following days, he did justice to this name. For ten days Heppner defended his pink jersey with complete devotion. At the same time, he also set a record for the history books: in over 100 years no other German rider had ever managed to wear the pink jersey for so long.

In the year of the 10th anniversary of his accomplishment, Jens Heppner is planning to return to the site of his grand triumph. As the Sport Director of Team NetApp, the top-class German cycling team, he would like to lead the young riders to the Giro d'Italia. As a second-class team, their participation will depend on a wild card, but they have already managed to overcome the first hurdle to make the shortlist.

"We are assuming that two invitations will be extended to non-Italian teams. NetApp is one of the teams being considered. Our riders have proven that they can complete tours on the podium and in the top ten," Jens Heppner says of his ambitious plans.

If Team NetApp were to be invited to the Giro d'Italia, it would be the only German team in this venerable race. The organizers hope to announce their decision on January 10.

Interview Jens Heppner