The stage started on Swiss territory in Sierre. The peloton crossed the Simplon Pass, a climb of around 20 kilometres, and then headed back to Italy. Today it was also drenching with rain. Team Jumbo-Visma rode at the front of the peloton for a short time in the early stages to keep some high-profile riders in check.

The pink leader's jersey changed hands. Early escapee Bruno Armirail and his companions opened a gap large enough to compensate for the 18 minutes he was trailing behind. The peloton finished more than 21 minutes after stage winner Denz.

"It was another cold and wet day”, sports director Marc Reef said. "We dressed well and rode in a good position all day. That way, we got through the stage well. We're glad it didn't turn into a bunch sprint because that would have caused a lot of nervousness. We didn't expect the pink jersey to change hands today. As the day went on, that scenario became more and more realistic. Now another team will take control of the race. FDJ will do everything it can to defend the pink jersey. Tomorrow's stage could see some changes in the general classification. So far, apart from the time trial, the GC riders have only tested each other once. Many factors will determine how tomorrow's stage will unfold. We all know that the last week will be decisive.”