Fabian Cancellara will start the Giro d'Italia on Friday even if he is suffering from stomach flu. The Swiss rider has not raced the Giro d’Italia since 2009 but he wants to wear th maglia rosa after the opening time trial.

"It’s not the best situation but we’re working on it. Yesterday in training I had strange feelings, I felt tired and had some joint pains. Then, after training I went into my room and I was more a guest of the toilet than the hotel. Last night, I had a fever and it’s not the best situation regarding tomorrow. I’ll rest and we’ll see what comes", he told Cyclingnews. "I will not give up. Stomach flu hits you hard but I’ll definitely start. I don’t have the fever now. I don’t want to say my Giro is starting in doubt, that’s too early to say. The most important thing now is stay positive, relax and recover. I’ll make the best out of it."