RAPOLANO TERME: Movistar’s Pelayo Sanchez of Spain battled dust, gravel and sand to beat Frenchman Julian Alaphilippe on Thursday’s sixth stage of the Giro d’Italia after 180km of Tuscan vineyards.
The pair broke away from the main peloton 40km from home, joined by Australian Lucas Plapp, who took the virtual lead at this stage that ensured the big guns chased the trio to the line.
The 180km race took just 4 hours 1 minute and 8 seconds, with the peloton just 29 seconds behind despite the sand and gravel.
The sixth of the 21 stages was a nerve-wracking Giro d’Italia race, led by Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar, the same as the previous five.
The race leader was expected to attack again but was relieved after the race.
“It started another phase, and to be honest, I’m glad it’s over. It’s good, but Ineos rode hard on the gravel and never stopped,” said Pogacar.
The white wet road with the taste of Tuscan wine is also present in the Strade Bianche classic, won by Alaphilippe in 2019 and a fresh victory for the Fast Step veteran.
Two-time world champion Alaphilippe praised the winner, saying he is still confident of a stage win at this Giro.
“The best man wins, he is sharper and faster,” said the 32-year-old.
Pogacar has won on those tracks this year and proved on Thursday that he is not willing to let his leader all wear the pink jersey, with his team likely to deny Alaphilippe victory as 24-year-old Sanchez closes faster.
“It was a crazy day. The race was out of control of the whole stage. It was ridiculous for the first 80km,” he said.
Winner echoed the same sentiment.
“It’s crazy. I have no words. Full throttle all day,” said Sanchez. “I can’t imagine winning on stage.”
Geraint Thomas is 46 seconds ahead of Friday’s 40km test, which ends with Pogacar’s trip to Perugia, with Dani Martinez in 47th.
“This is an interesting track. I don’t know how I’m going to do it yet, I just want to feel good on the bike, my legs are good. Let’s see tomorrow,” said Pogacar.
