Despite almost two thousand metres of climbing, the fifth stage had more descents than climbs. Team Jumbo-Visma, with six riders still in the race after Eva van Agt's withdrawal, attacked early in the stage. Kraak was part of a group of eleven. When this group was caught, Markus took off. But she, too, was caught. Bauernfeind's attack proved to be the ultimate. Kraak and Markus finished half a minute behind the winner in the group of favourites, in which Markus sprinted to sixth place.

"It was an especially tough day”, Markus admitted. "From the start, a lot of riders attacked. The group with Amber couldn't escape, and many girls at the back had to let go. After the last few days, there was hope in the peloton. Everyone wanted to take their chance. You could see that today.”

Markus is happy with her sixth place and her improving form. "This is a good result. I feel like I can do a little bit more every day. I can fight in the race. I'm happy about that. Hopefully, this will continue. In any case, I am looking forward to the next few days.”