Stage 8 of the Giro d’Italia Women was dramatically shortened by approximately 25 kilometres due to a snow avalanche affecting the final section of the iconic Colle delle Finestre climb.
As a result, the planned finish in Sestriere was cancelled, with race organizers moving the finish line to a point one kilometre before the summit of Finestre in order to avoid the hazardous area. The decision was taken while the race was already underway, creating a chaotic and challenging day for riders and teams alike. The stage was ultimately reduced to just 76.8 kilometres.
Despite the unusual circumstances, UAE Team ADQ‘s Elisa Longo Borghini once again showed her determination on the decisive climb. The Italian champion remained with the leading contenders until the final kilometres before losing contact near the top and crossing the line in eighth place, 1:39 behind stage winner Demi Vollering (FDJ-SUEZ).
Anna van der Breggen (Team SD Worx – Protime) finished fourth on the stage and successfully retained the Maglia Rosa. Longo Borghini now sits seventh overall in the general classification, 3:46 off the race lead.
Silvia Persico was once again the key figure in the breakaway today, which was then caught on the first slopes of the final climb.
The Giro d’Italia Women will conclude tomorrow with Stage 9, a 145-kilometre route starting and finishing in Saluzzo, where the final overall standings will be decided.
(ph. Getty Sport)
