On the hilly route of more than 27 kilometres Tony Martin, Sepp Kuss and Mike Teunissen rode their race against the clock early in the day. The trio had long finished when Steven Kruijswijk prepared for his ride. The Dutchman rode a decent race and recovered somewhat after the physical problems of the first days.

Then it was Vingegaard, Roglic and Van Aert’s turn. The Dane got off to a flying start and fell just short to beat the fastest time of European time trial champion Stefan Küng. Roglic organised his time trial well and he rode to an encouraging seventh place despite his battered constitution.

The Slovenian explained that it was not really easy. “It was hard today. I really gave everything. I don’t feel in great shape and I'm covered in abrasions from head to toe. Step by step I feel a little better. We will continue to give everything as a team every day and then we will see how far we can go. I am proud that I gave everything today. That’s all I can do.”

Number three Vingegaard was pleased with his performance. “I can be very satisfied with my time. I’m close to the top. I don't see myself as a pure time trial specialist. I have done some good time trials this year. I didn't expect that I would set a top time in this race. It’s also positive that Primoz feels better step by step. I hope he recovers fully and quickly. In any case, the right form is there.”

“I didn’t expect Pogacar to take the win. But you can’t call it a surprise anymore”, Van Aert said after his time trial. The versatile Belgian doesn’t blame himself. “I gave everything and made no mistakes along the way. After a few kilometres I noticed I didn’t have the legs needed to win today. I did not have the surplus. The disappointment now prevails. I had hoped to be closer to the day’s victory”, he concluded.