The second stage to Pomarance was coloured by the traditional early breakaway that was eventually caught in the final fifteen kilometres. Team Jumbo-Visma helped to control the stage and brought Roglic and De Plus in a perfect position for the final climb, after which the Slovenian started to attack.

“It was a difficult day. We continuously were facing headwind. But Primoz and I were well protected by our team all day”, De Plus said. “The final was very stressful, but it’s always like that in Italy. Jos brought us in a good position to the climb, after which Primoz and I tried to ride together as much as possible. With his attacks he proved that he is in a good shape. It was just not difficult enough to gain time on the others, but we are happy that we have not lost time either. We are riding very well as a collective and Primoz is doing well. That gives us confidence to the upcoming days. The goal is to win Tirreno. My white jersey is not a goal itself, but for now it is a nice bonus.”