Alec Segaert's bold decision to attack 3 kilometers from the finish line paid off as he won stage 12 of the Giro d'Italia on Thursday, while his Bahrain Victorious teammate Afonso Eulálio extended his overall lead by snatching bonus seconds in the intermediate sprint.
Stage 12 Overview
The 175-kilometer ride from Imperia to Novi Ligure appeared destined for a sprint finish until the Belgian rider Segaert made his decisive move. Holding off the chasing pack, he secured the win on his Giro debut. His compatriot Toon Aerts of Lotto-Intermarche finished second, followed by former race leader Guillermo Thomas Silva of XDS Astana Team.
When asked about his attack, Segaert said: "I would say yesterday evening. I had it always in mind. I was really happy with how the race was going, a hard pace on the climb, and then teammates of the sprinters who were left had to ride hard, and this was my chance to go in the final when they were all on the limit."
General Classification Impact
Eulálio added six seconds to his lead over favorite Jonas Vingegaard, who now trails by 33 seconds in the overall standings. The Portuguese rider's consistent performance continues to strengthen his grip on the pink jersey.
Race Dynamics
Johan Jacobs attacked from the start, and while his breakaway companions changed frequently, the Swiss rider maintained a two-minute lead over the peloton after 100 kilometers as the race approached the first of two climbs. Movistar, still seeking their first stage win this year, drove the main bunch on the ascent, reeling in the leaders at the top of Colle Giovo.
On the second climb, several riders were dropped, including points classification leader Paul Magnier and Italian Jonathan Milan. Despite efforts from sprint rivals to bridge the gap, they realized their race was over for the day. Eulálio surprised the bunch at the intermediate sprint, and Giulio Ciccone attempted an attack with 7 kilometers remaining, but it was quickly neutralized. Segaert then made his winning move, catching Vingegaard and his Visma-Lease a Bike team off guard, denying the sprinters their expected battle. Movistar's Orluis Aular had to settle for sixth place after all their work.
Upcoming Stage
Friday's stage 13 will take riders 189 kilometers from Alessandria to Verbania, offering new opportunities for attacks and changes in the general classification.
