In a stunning display of power and strategy, Isaac del Toro claimed his 16th victory of the season at the Giro del Veneto, leaving his rivals in the dust. But this win wasn't just about individual brilliance; it was a team effort that showcased the dominance of UAE Team Emirates-XRG.
The race began with a bang: Del Toro, supported by his teammates, made a bold move on the final ascent of Torricella Massimiliana, a 4km climb at 5%, leaving the competition behind. And here's where it gets controversial—was this a calculated risk or a stroke of genius? Only Del Toro and his team know for sure.
As the peloton rolled out of Vicenza on Wednesday, the stage was set for an epic battle. The early break, including the legendary Elia Viviani on his last road race, was kept on a tight leash, never gaining a significant advantage. But as the race entered its crucial laps around Verona, the real action began.
Groupama-FDJ and UAE Team Emirates-XRG turned up the heat, setting a blistering pace that shattered the peloton. Romain Grégoire, initially Del Toro's shadow, couldn't keep up, and the Mexican rider found himself alone at the front, a lone wolf with over 10km to go. And this is the part most people miss—the psychological battle within, where the mind must stay sharp despite the physical exhaustion.
In the final moments, Del Toro's lead grew, and the chase group, led by his teammate Pavel Sivakov, swallowed up Grégoire. The stage was set for a dramatic finish, but no one could catch the flying Mexican. Del Toro's victory was a testament to his team's strategy and his own incredible form.
Results:
- Isaac del Toro (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) - 3:24:29
- Pavel Sivakov (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) +0:22
- Jonas Abrahamsen (Uno-X Mobility)
- Eric Fagundez (Burgos-Burpellet-BH)
- Simone Velasco (XDS-Astana)
- Benjamin Thomas (Cofidis)
- Romain Gregoire (Groupama-FDJ)
- Johannes Kulset (Uno-X Mobility)
- Filippo Zana (Jayco-AlUla)
- Davide de Pretto (Jayco-AlUla)
The author, Matilda, a seasoned journalist, has captured the essence of this thrilling race, leaving us with a question: Was Del Toro's move a calculated risk or pure instinct? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
