Giro 2019 Favourites stage 17: Tough test for tough climbers

The 17th stage of the Giro d'Italia features a lot of climbing. Not only on the ascents, but the intermediate sections between the climbs are virtually all false flat. (Slideshow route/profile)

The first climb is the Passo della Mendola – 8.4 kilometres at 4.5% -, which is perfect to stretch the legs. And for the breakaway to take shape. Following the descent the route continues on the ascents to Elvas (3.4 kilometres at 7.6%), Terento (6.6 kilometres at 7.6%) and Anterselva (5.5 kilometres at 6.9%). The Anterselva-climb runs to the finish and a better way to describe it is as follows: 4.5 kilometres at 8.2% and a final-run in on the flat.

What to expect? Last year, Simon Yates put on an amazing performance with three stage wins and thirteen days in the maglia rosa before he faded away in the final days of the Giro. Does he opt for a reverse scenario this time? Seemingly, the Vuelta-winner was getting better day by day, although the Mortirol stage was a bit of a setback.

As Roglic lost his good position on GC (given his ITT skills) a new situation did unfold. He is more than 2 minutes behind the maglia rosa and Movistar will not be forced to attack anymore. Yet, Nibali’s situation remains unchanged, so we sould see more shark attacks underway to Anterselva.

Favourites 17th 2019 Giro d’Italia
*** Simon Yates, Mikel Landa, Vincenzo Nibali
** Miguel Ángel López, Primoz Roglic, Richard Carapaz
* Mikel Nieve, Joe Dombrowski, Fausto Masnada, Giulio Ciccone

Check out the route of stage 17.