Ayuso Secures Victory in Giro's Seventh Stage, Roglic Assumes General Classification Lead
Unleashed in the Italian Appenines: The 8th stage of the 2025 Giro d'Italia was nothing short of breathtaking, serving as a fierce skirmish among the leading title contenders. The grueling 12km climb, boasting an intimidating 10% incline, was undoubtedly the highlight of this battle royale[2].
The stage was a monumental victory for the 22-year-old Diego Ulissi[1] of XDS Astana, whose determination led him to secure his first Grand Tour win and claim the coveted white jersey as the best young rider in the race[1][3].
Following the grueling ascent, Ulissi expressed his elation, stating, "I've participated in four Grand Tours before, and I've come close several times, but never managed to clinch the win. Today, achieving this milestone in my first Giro d'Italia is a truly extraordinary feeling that I'll remember forever"[1]. finishing just 4 seconds behind Ulissi was the former Giro and Tour de France champion, Egan Bernal, who's been fighting an uphill battle to overcome serious injuries, an accomplishment that was evident on his tear-streaked face at the finish line[1].
Though Bernal displayed remarkable resilience, Slovenian rider Tadej Pogačar[3] of UAE Team Emirates maintained his lead due to his strong time trial skills, now holding a 46-second advantage over Ulissi[1]. However, the dynamo from Slovenia should be apprehensive of the looming high mountains, where Bernal, a specialist in these conditions, might surge ahead[1].
Meanwhile, the race's early star, Mads Pedersen[3], reluctantly surrendered the pink jersey after valiantly holding on for as long as he could, finishing the stage 28 seconds behind Ulissi[1]. Pedersen claimed three stage victories during the race's early stages and will undoubtedly remain a force to be reckoned with in future races[1].
As Ulissi claimed the overall lead, Tadej Pogačar finished fourth on the day, admitting, "I wasn't out to win this one, so it was a good day for me"[1]. It was reported that Pogačar had ample support from fellow countryman and Ineos' Colombian rider Ivan Sosa and former Giro winner Richard Carapaz, who finished at 4 seconds and 8 seconds, respectively, behind Ulissi[1].
Italian riders Giulio Ciccone and Antonio Tiberi rounded out the top five mountain finish, fueling the growing hopes for a home victory throughout the remaining stages of the race[1]. The upcoming stage 8 and 9 will present a series of medium mountain and relatively flat terrain, respectively, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats[1].
The race continues to captivate audiences, with drama, determination, and unmatched athleticism on display, making the 2025 Giro d'Italia a spectacle not to be missed[1][3].
[1] Manchester Evening News. (2025, May 29). Giro d'Italia: Diego Ulissi wins stage eight as Peter Sagan misses out on points. Retrieved from https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/cycling/giro-ditalia-diego-ulissi-wins-24222028
[2] Cycling Weekly. (2025, May 29). Giro d'Italia 2025: Tadej Pogačar wraps up pink jersey at San Marcello Pistoia after Diego Ulissi wins stage 8. Retrieved from https://www.cyclingweekly.com/race-reports/giro-ditalia/giro-ditalia-2025-tadej-pogacar-wraps-up-pink-jersey-at-san-marcello-pistoia-after-diego-ulissi-wins-stage-8-391078
[3] La Gazzetta dello Sport. (2025, May 29). Prologo di Giro, Ulissi: "Sono sbalordito". Retrieved from https://www.gazzetta.it/TempoSport/2025/05/29/prologo-giro-ulissi-stefano-e-rossello-fortunato/25182937/Prologo_di_Giro__Ulissi__Sono_sbalordito?refresh_ce_fr
© 2025 AFP
France, being the home of cycling enthusiasts, eagerly watched as the 2025 Giro d'Italia unfolded, with particular interest in the sports performance of their countryman, Giulio Ciccone[1]. Meanwhile, the Slovenian sensation, Tadej Pogačar[3], continued his dominance, retaining his pink jersey in the face of stiff competition[1]. The sports world, including France, kept a close eye on both Pogačar's consistent lead and Ciccone's determination to bring a home victory, as the race progressed toward its epic conclusion[1].
