Cycling: On the 19th stage of the Giro d'Italia, the focus is once again on climbers. But the super-difficult mountains are missing tomorrow. Is this another chance for brave outliers like Simon Geschke or Georg Steinhauser?
Only 2nd and 3rd category mountains
The Giro d'Italia is coming to an end. After today's flat stage for the sprinters, the mountain and hill riders will be challenged again tomorrow. There are three mountain classifications to complete on the 157 kilometer long course from Mortegliano to Sappada, but none of the climbs are really difficult. The Duron Pass (6,9 km with 5,8%), the Sella Valcalda (8,9 km with 3,7%) and the Sappada peak (10,7 km with 4,4%) are all either too short or not steep enough to really pose problems for the classification riders.
Velomotion forecast: Another outlier
Tomorrow another outlier will be able to celebrate the day's victory - that's our forecast. The very unchallenging first half of the race is ideal for forming a large group. Hardly any team would really be interested in closing the gap Tadej pogacar (UAE) to reach the last kilometers together - except maybe Movistar. It is therefore extremely realistic that some riders will break away from the peloton at the beginning and ultimately fight for the stage victory among themselves. Some drivers from eleventh place in the overall standings are also eligible. They are strong on the mountain, in good shape and should definitely be given a head start by UAE Team Emirates. We predict a strong breakaway group and success Lorenzo Fortunato (Astana). The Italian is riding a very good Giro d'Italia and could crown this tomorrow.
* * * Lorenzo Fortunato (Astana)
** Luca Covili (VF Group – Bardiani CSF – Faizanè), Valentin Paret Peintre (Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale)
* Michael Storer (Tudor), Davide Piganzoli (Polti – Kometa), Simon Geschke (Cofidis)