The 13th Giro stage ignited about 50 kilometers from the finish in Vicenza. On the San Giovanni in Monte, a five-kilometer climb, Ineos Grenadiers put pressure on the peloton, causing it to thin out significantly. Due to a misjudgment by another rider, Van Aert ended up in a chasing group. With the help of his teammates, he quickly managed to return to the front. Meanwhile, the peloton kept several breakaway riders within reach.  

In Vicenza, the riders completed a local circuit. The finish line was drawn atop Monte Berico, a short but steep climb. Shortly after the first ascent of Monte Berico, Romain Bardet and Mathias Vacek made a move. The duo gained a small lead, but their breakaway effort ultimately fell short just before the finish.  

On the uphill finishing stretch, Pedersen launched his sprint from far. Only Van Aert was able to stay on the Dane’s wheel. In a thrilling duel, Van Aert was unable to overtake his rival in the final meters. The Belgian narrowly missed out on his second stage victory in this Giro. “I had to dig incredibly deep,” Van Aert commented. “It was a very tough finale. I didn’t dare to go early on this steep final climb, but Mads did. I managed to respond well to his acceleration, but once again, beating him proved extremely difficult.”