The Giro d’Italia’s stage 10 from Pompei to Cusano Mutri, ending at the summit of Bocca della Selva, witnessed an exhilarating battle among 27 riders, ultimately won by Valentin Paret-Peintre. The French rider claimed his first professional victory in a dramatic finish, outpacing Romain Bardet and Jan Tratnik, who finished second and third respectively.
The race commenced under clear skies at the historical site of Pompei, with the peloton covering the initial flat 50km at a high pace before the terrain became more challenging. The early breakaway included Simon Clarke and Alessandro De Marchi, who pushed the pace but could not sustain their effort into the later stages of the race.
As the riders approached the Camposauro climb, a new group surged forward, catching up with the early breakaway. This group saw action from several contenders, including Paret-Peintre and Bardet, who navigated the undulating terrain expertly. Bardet, who had lost time in earlier stages, was looking to make significant advances in the general classification.
Tratnik attempted a solo escape with 38 km remaining, gaining a substantial lead. However, his effort was countered by Bardet, Paret-Peintre, and others who began a determined chase. Paret-Peintre eventually overtook Tratnik in the last three kilometres, securing the stage win with a bold move.
Speaking about his victory, Paret-Peintre expressed his disbelief and joy, “To be honest, I can’t describe what I feel now. It’s just amazing. I watched Bardet when I was young, when he finished on the podium at the Tour de France. I dreamt by seeing him on TV and today I battled with him and beat him.”
Tadej Pogacar, the current race leader, retained the Maglia Rosa. He finished the stage comfortably within the main group, which crossed the line more than three minutes after Bardet. Pogacar praised the day’s racing strategy, stating, “We let the break go away, so we could ride at our own pace. Other teams worked and then Bahrain Victorious worked in the final, it was perfect for us.”
The stage reshuffled the general classification somewhat, with Bardet climbing to seventh and other breakaway riders, including Filippo Zana and Domenico Pozzovivo, moving up as well.
Tomorrow’s stage, covering 207 km from Foiano di Val Fortore to Francavilla al Mare, promises more strategic racing, with a mix of hilly and flat terrain, posing a different set of challenges for the riders.
2024 Giro d’Italia Stage 10 result
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