The 26.7-kilometre team time trial took the riders from Fossano to Cuneo.

Trek-Segafredo's first four riders finished the event in a time of 33min 40sec, with Winder joined by The Netherlands' Ellen van Dijk, Italy’s Elisa Longo Borghini and Britain’s Lizzie Deignan.

Winder was the first rider across the line from the team, which will see the American taking the leader’s jersey.

Winder told the Trek-Segafredo website that the team were hoping to set up Longo Borghini’s challenge for the general classification, with the Italian among the pre-race favourites.

"We tried very hard today because we have such a strong leader with Elisa who is super strong and super Italian, very proud, and this race means a lot to her," Winder said.

"To do a really strong team time trial to set Elisa up for the entire week was really important today, so lots of motivation for me and the whole team.

"It’s a very special jersey, and I hope it gives the whole team magic.

"I am very excited to wear it and now see what we can do the whole week, especially with Elisa."

Team SD Worx finished eight seconds off the pace, with their first five riders finishing together.

The team are likely to build their challenge around defending champion Anna van der Breggen, who is seeking a fourth title at the race.

The Dutch star was supported by her compatriot Demi Vollering, South Africa’s Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio, New Zealand’s Niamh Fisher-Black and Italy’s Elena Cecchini.

The 10-stage race will continue tomorrow with a 100km route from Boves to Prato Nevoso.

The race has been rebranded at the Giro Donne, after previously been known as the Giro Rosa.