“Before the start, I had the feeling this was a good stage for me,” Battaglin said. “I had to work hard to be in the breakaway and on the first climb of the day, I felt my legs were not as good as before and I was dropped. Afterwards, I managed to come back to the group, but while climbing the Selvino, it was all over for me.” 

“I did not expect it to be a day for the GC riders,” said Kruijswijk. “I knew the final would be difficult for me. I tried to position well for the final climb, but that cost me in the final. Luckily, I was able to get back with the group of favourites in the last kilometre.” 

Kruijswijk faces the last week of the 100th edition of the Giro with confidence. “I am very happy with the way the last two stages went. Tomorrow is a rest day. I know what is coming, so for now I am going to enjoy it.”