Team Jumbo-Visma suffered two setbacks at the start of the day. Owen Geleijn could not start the fourth stage due to a crash earlier in the week. Sam Oomen crashed during the stage and was also forced to abandon. Oomen suffered abrasions and pain in his shoulder and was taken to the hospital for an examination.

The riders had to climb five hills today. It was the last chance for the climbers to gain some time on an uphill course before the time trial. The highlight was the Alto do Malhão, which had to be climbed twice.

Around 30 riders, including Milan Vader and Foss, started the last of two climbs up the steep hill. A few favourites made a move, and Foss was forced to chase them down. The Norwegian eventually crossed the line 20 seconds behind stage winner Tom Pidcock.

Foss has dropped two places in the general classification. He is now 10th overall. However, the differences are small, and the classification will likely be shaken up on the final day.

"We did not have an ideal start to the day”, said sports director Marc Reef, referring to Geleijn and Oomen's retirements. "But it was important to continue quickly. With the three men still in the race, we made the most of it. We protected Tobias well along the way, and Milan was still with him on the final climb. After that, the favourites increased the pace, and it was important for Tobias to push himself to the limit. That was the goal. It's not the kind of climb Tobias is made for, but he managed to limit the damage. So there is still a lot to ride for in tomorrow's time trial. It won't be easy to gain many places because there are good time trialists at the top of the classification. In any case, we will try hard.”