The Slovenian is the absolute dominator of the Giro d’Italia but an episode that occurred during yesterday’s stage also confirms his extraordinary sportsmanship. “I never thought I would take advantage of it.”
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Tadej Pogacar he is the absolute ruler of Tour of Italy. The pink jersey is now a second skin for him who, net of the 20th stage and the suggestions for the arrival in Bassano del Grappa, does not seem to have rivals who can worry him, leaving them only the possibility of fighting for a better placing.
The route from Albago to the arrival in the Vicenza area presents over 4000 meters of altitude difference and hides the danger of the double climb of Monte Grappa which can cause jolts. But the standard bearer of the UAE Team Emirates has the victory of this edition in his grasp but he will also climb to the top step of the podium for another reason: the beautiful gesture of fair play that distinguished him in Friday’s race.
The Slovenian had the opportunity to widen his lead over one of his most fearsome pursuers, Geraint Thomas, but he chose to slow down, almost to a stop so as not to take advantage of his opponent blocked by an unexpected event. And so, informed of what had happened, it took him a short time to send the order: word of mouth meant that the entire pink jersey group took their foot off the pedal (as they say in jargon) and didn’t keep pushing.
Giro d’Italia 2024, Vendrame leads everyone in Sappada: the Venetian wins the 19th stage
Why? Due to a fall by the Welshman which occurred when there were a handful of kilometers left before the conclusion of the 19th stage of the race with the finish line in Sappada. Thomas tested the asphalt for a slip caused by his incorrect maneuver (he escaped with some minor ailments), he lost precious time to change the bike but what happened at the same time brought to mind episodes that belong to a the heroic era of two wheels.
The pink jersey group noticeably slowed down, keeping a slow pace so that the Ineos Grenadiers rider (currently 3rd in the general classification) could get back into the group of big names in the classification.
“None of us – Pogacar’s words – thought we could exploit that situation and what had happened to Thomas. I found it a very beautiful reaction, in line with that feeling of respect I’ve had since the Tour”.
The competition and all that it entails is one thing, the gestures that make all the difference are another, even if you are there in front and have the victory in your hands. “The fact that no one decided to attack – added the Slovenian – was certainly a great moment for our sport.”
