The Giro peloton set off for a 151-kilometer stage between Ceglie Messapica and Matera. After a relatively flat opening section, several steep climbs awaited in the finale.  

The Montescaglioso was the first of three climbs in the ultimate kilometres. Under the high pace set by Team UAE Emirates and Lidl-Trek, many sprinters were dropped from the peloton. Olav Kooij also had to let go. The 23-year-old Dutchman now looks ahead to a new sprint opportunity in Naples tomorrow, where he won a stage in last year’s Giro.  

Heading into the final climb, Yates was excellently positioned at the front of the peloton by teammates Wout van Aert and Bart Lemmen. The Brit then rode a good final ascent, responding smoothly to an acceleration from Primoz Roglic. In the general classification, he remains in eleventh place.  

“Today went well,” Yates said afterward. “We had to be patient during the uneventful opening hours, but the race exploded in the finale. I had great support from Wout and Bart to start the final short climb in a good position. In such a chaotic race, it’s always important to be up front. It was never realistic for me to win this sprint, but I felt good today. I’ll take that feeling into the coming days.”  

“Today’s focus was mainly on Simon,” said sports director Marc Reef. “We’re pleased with how he performed in this stage. Olav quickly realized it was too tough for him and decided to save energy with tomorrow’s sprint in mind. Wout didn’t want to push himself too hard because he’s still not feeling 100%. Together with Bart Lemmen, he helped position Simon well in the finale before riding to the finish at his own pace. All in all, it was a good day.”