In the stage through the Alps with three big mountains, two of which above 2000 metres, the three stayed with the main group until the last five kilometres. In the final they rode their own pace and successfully defended their places in the overall classification. With only a time trial in Milan ahead, Team Jumbo-Visma has three riders within the top twelve overall.

“The guys did very well again today”, sports director Addy Engels said. “It was a very tough stage and it went like the whole second half of this Giro. We were represented well with Tobias, George and Koen and I think everyone finished in their place. Of course you wonder if we could have done something to finish higher in the standings, but the ninth place for Tobias is the highest possible for now. For such a young rider in his first full Grand Tour, that’s just really good.”

Bouwman once again rode a great stage, although the Dutchman didn’t feel the same as yesterday.“Yesterday I was much better than today. I really had to go give my all there and today I paid the price for those efforts. I tried to keep up with the GC guys as long as possible but when I had to give in, I helped Tobias as well as I could. I think I can be super happy with how I rode this Giro and I certainly enjoyed it.”