The rider of XDS Astana Team Diego Ulissi is the new leader of the Giro d’Italia, with his teammate Lorenzo Fortunato now sitting in second place overall. (1466 days after the last Italian)
Stage 8 of the Giro d’Italia delivered a brilliant result for XDS Astana Team: Diego Ulissi claimed the maglia rosa after finishing third on the stage, while Lorenzo Fortunato moved up to second place in the overall standings and successfully defended his lead in the KOM classification.
“It was an incredible day! It took a huge effort to make it into the breakaway. We knew this stage was perfect for an attack, so we committed fully to the plan. In the final, (Luke) Plapp was stronger, and it came down to the two of us. At some point, I realized I had a real chance to fight for the GC lead, so I gave absolutely everything I had. The fans on the roadside were shouting that I was racing for the pink jersey — it was just amazing. To wear the maglia rosa at almost 36 years old is an unforgettable achievement. It’s one of the most meaningful moments of my career, and I’m proud to share it with XDS Astana Team. Choosing to join this team was absolutely the right decision, and today’s result proves it. We now sit first and second in the general classification, and Lorenzo (Fortunato) also delivered an outstanding performance today”, – said Diego Ulissi.
“Tomorrow we start in Tuscany — my home region. That’s something I couldn’t even dream of. I want to thank all my teammates, the staff, and our sponsors for their incredible support”, – added Diego Ulissi, the rider of XDS Astana Team and the new leader of the Giro d’Italia.
“Today’s success is also symbolic for us: May 17 marks the Birthday of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. XDS Astana Team proudly dedicates this sporting achievement to this important occasion and congratulates the President on his Birthday”, – added Alexandr Vinokurov, General Manager of XDS Astana Team.
GC
1 Diego Ulissi XDS Astana Team 29:21:23 0:00
2 Lorenzo Fortunato Xds Astana Team 29:21:35 0:12
3 Primož Roglič Red Bull – Bora – Hansgrohe 29:21:40 0:17
