French cyclist Julian Alaphilippe marked a triumphant return to form with a dominant victory in the 12th stage of the Giro d'Italia, breaking a two-year winless streak plagued by injuries. The 31-year-old former double world champion secured the win after a solo breakaway covering 126km, while Slovenian Tadej Pogacar retained the coveted pink jersey as the race leader.
Alaphilippe's victory in his debut Giro appearance holds special significance as it completes his stage wins across all three Grand Tours – France, Italy, and Spain. Reflecting on his win, Alaphilippe expressed gratitude to his team for their support and emphasized the importance of the victory for him personally, highlighting its significance after a challenging period marked by setbacks and criticism.
Teaming up with Italian rider Mirco Maestri in a well-coordinated effort, Alaphilippe demonstrated his resilience and tactical prowess throughout the demanding stage, which favored breakaway specialists. After a strategic move on the final climb, he left Maestri behind and held off late challenges from Ecuadorian Jhonatan Narvaez and Belgian Quinten Hermans to secure the victory.
Alaphilippe's resurgence in form holds particular resonance in Italy, where he had previously achieved notable successes, including triumphs in prestigious races like Milan-San Remo and Strade Bianche. Despite enduring a tumultuous period marred by injuries and criticism, Alaphilippe's perseverance and determination ultimately paid off, earning him a well-deserved win and reaffirming his status as one of cycling's elite riders.
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