Maddaloni – Montevergine di Mercogliano
The first summit finish
Montevergine is a regular feature in the Giro's first week, appearing in 2004, when Damiano Cunego took the stage, and 2007, when Danilo Di Luca was triumphant. Both went on to take the overall title. Serra della Strada is a tough leg-loosener before the mid-point and the climb to Montevergine is long at 17km but averages just 5 per cent. Ramps of up to 10 per cent should provide a chance for in-form climbers to break up the main contenders' group, though, even if the time gaps between them aren't likely to be significant. We'll know the riders with serious aspirations on the maglia rosa by tonight.
Details
Distance: 110km
Highest point: 1,260m
Category: Mountain stage
Simoni says...
"It's short at 110km but with a 20km ramp to the finish, I think it'll sort out the GC. It's a sprinters' stage the day after, so contenders won't hold back. It suits Joaquim Rodríguez but Contador and Menchov will want to make a statement here."
Image ©: RCS Sport
Profile
Image ©: RCS Sport
Profile - Final kilometres
Image ©: RCS Sport
-
Payson McElveen unveils film about 'once-in-a-lifetime' ride, finishing 242 miles of New Zealand trails with 25,000 feet of climbing in 24 hours
US rider says 'it was a surreal feeling' when he finished with 25 minutes to spare -
'I honestly feel there are bigger things to come' - Michael Matthews has renewed enthusiasm for cycling and for life after pulmonary embolism scare
Jayco-AlUla leader on his return to training and his love-hate relationship with Milan-San Remo -
'This is the training race … but it doesn't mean that I'm not going to go all out' – Brodie Chapman chases intensity at Tour of Bright ahead of key January goals in Australia
Australian time trial champion adapts to schedule change with additional race -
'Proud of my progression' – Mountain bike world champion Alan Hatherly prepared for sophomore season of WorldTour road racing
South African racer continues to balance road at Jayco-AlUla with MTB in 2026 keeping an eye on race wins and building for the 2028 Olympic Games
