On the last climb, Tobias Foss made sure a sizable breakaway was brought back. For several kilometres, the world time trial champion was in the lead. With six kilometres remaining, Foss fell behind, leaving Vingegaard and the other favourites to take the lead.

Vingegaard kept up the pace in the breakaway; Pogacar was the first who tried to escape. In the following kilometres, Vingegaard and Gaudu battled to catch the Slovenian. After Gaudu had gone, Vingegaard had a hard time keeping up, but the Dane did not let go. Vingegaard was the first of the three to attack in the last kilometre, but the number three in the overall classification lacked the strength to prevail.

"The accelerations were a bit too strong for me today”, said Vingegaard. "I decided to ride at my own pace. It worked well. I was able to come back after every attack, which at least gives me confidence. Yet, I am also aware that I still need to get better this season. At least this race is not one of the main goals of the season", the Dane said confidently. “There is another stage tomorrow. A lot can happen, so I will keep fighting."

Teammate Foss joined Vingegaard on the final ascent and ensured the pack was significantly reduced with a powerful ride at the front. "I feel I was able to help Jonas well today. Even though I didn't feel in the best possible shape, I decided to go all the way. I gave everything in the first few kilometres of the final climb. At one point, I had to give in. Then it was up to Jonas to make the most of it. I rode to the finish at my own pace.”