Pogačar almost surprised everyone in stage 3 of the Giro d’Italia. It was decided in the spurt, with Merlier taking the win

The third stage of the Giro was supposed to be purely for the spurters and without any major surprises. Of course, it wouldn’t be Tadej Pogačar who would attack when he sensed an opportunity. He almost surprised all the spurter aces.

Pogačar always and everywhere attacks

The Slovenian phenomenon Tadej Pogačar is the Eddy Merckx of modern times. He has long since moved beyond winning mountain stages to becoming one of the most versatile cyclists of the modern era. He can already measure up to the classics specialists. He is also excellent in time trials, and virtually unrivalled in mountain stages. Now he’s venturing into the sprints, where he’s also had some successes,

This 166 km long stage, starting in Novara and finishing in Fossano, was the first one prepared for the spurters. It featured a single rated climb of around 50km at the top of Lu, but it was only 3.4km long.

The summit premium on this peak was dominated by Lilian Calmejane. But there was still over 100km to go. That left plenty of time for any breakaways and tactical staging. But the peloton was literally going at cruising pace.

There was one attempt at a breakaway, which numbered 23 riders. The lead was only something like 1 minute over the peloton. In this case, he didn’t have much hope of success. The final kilometres were expected to be a hell of a pace. It was only a matter of time before these riders would be caught by the peloton.

with 22km to go, Tadej Pogačar gained a bonus second in the sprinters’ premium on Gerraint Thomas. A further 2km later, Simon Carr would end his Giro career this year, joining Robert Gesink and Eddie Dumbar who are no longer continuing in this Grand Tour.

Pogacar’s next attack

With about 9km to go, everything is already gearing up for the final spurt. The peloton is already whizzing along at over 70 km/h, but contrary to all expectations, it is the young Slovenian Tadej Pogačar who tries to take the breakaway with less than 3 km to go.

This breakaway, which included second man in the standings Gerraint Thomas, lasted about 2.5km before they were caught by the peloton. Less than 300 metres remained for Pogačar to complete another sensation. Tim Merlier overtook Jonathan Milan in the final spurt at the line.

But Tadej Pogačar showed his strength again, he can compete with absolutely anyone. That’s why fans around the world love him. Thanks to him, the worldwide interest in this sport is increasing. He is a showman who doesn’t just ride strategically to win, but can attack anywhere.

The flat stage didn’t bring much change in the overall classification. Tadej Pogačar increased his lead by one second at the head of the overall classification to 46 seconds ahead of Gerraint Thomas. Tim Merlier celebrates his 8th victory of the season.

Giro d’Italia – Stage 3 (Novara – Fossano, 166 km)

1. Tim Merlier (Belgian/Soudal-Quick Step) 3:54:35,
2. Jonathan Milan (It./Lidl-Trek)
3. Biniam Girmay (Eritr./Intermarché-Wanty)
4. Jenthe Biermans (Belgium./Arkéa-B&B Hotels)
60. Hirt
131. Black

Standings

1. Tadej Pogačar 11:03:02
2. Gerraint Thomas -46
3. Daniel Felippe Martínez -47
4. Einer Rubio -56
8. Hirt -1:13
165. Cerny -43:48

Source: CyclingNews, Giro d’Italia