Alaphilippe takes next liberating victory in Giro, Pogacar sits back calmly | Cycling

Much was expected in advance of the stage to Rapolano Terme, in which the riders had to conquer two difficult gravel strips. Ultimately the spectacle was somewhat disappointing. The classification riders left each other alone.

After a grueling initial phase with many attacks, seven opened a gap with the peloton. Three escapees remained on the first gravel strip: Sánchez, Alaphilippe and Luke Plapp. This trio retained the lead and was allowed to sprint for the win.

Given his honors list, 31-year-old Alaphilippe had the best chance of victory, but he had to admit his superiority to Sánchez. The 24-year-old Spaniard from Movistar recorded his first victory in a Grand Tour. Plapp crossed the line in third.

For Alaphilippe, victory would have been liberating. The two-time world champion from Soudal Quick-Step has been winning for years, but has faded in recent seasons. This recently resulted in vicious criticism from his team leader Patrick Lefevere.

In this ‘Strade Bianche stage’, eyes were on Pogacar, who won the Italian gravel classic twice with a great display of power. But the Slovenian rosette wearer did not have to make an effort and also saw the INEOS Grenadiers of competitor Geraint Thomas do the leading work.

There were hardly any shifts at the top of the general classification. The Giro continues on Friday with a time trial of more than 40 kilometers. Most of this race against the clock is flat, after which the riders finish on a fourth category climb.