The fight to get in the day's breakaway was very intense. Many riders attacked. After fifty kilometers, seven riders formed the leading group after which Team Jumbo-Visma took control. The team did not allow this group to extend their lead beyond five minutes. Their lead was steadily decreasing but not fast enough to thwart the escapees' plans.

"The main goal in this difficult stage was to defend our positions in the general classification", Van Aert said. "The start was very hectic. After a while, an ideal race situation developed. Other teams tried to catch the break but came too late. It's not a disappointment that we weren't competing for the stage win. With the mountains coming up, we are now focusing on the GC. Jonas and Primoz sailed through today's stage without any problems. For them, an important final of this stage race starts tomorrow."