Tom Pidcock’s Giro d’Italia campaign took a disappointing turn during Stage 19 as the British rider from Q36.5 Pro Cycling was distanced with over 100 kilometres still to ride. The 24-year-old, who had shown moments of promise throughout the race, was seen slipping off the back of the peloton on the early slopes of the day’s first major climb, prompting concern among fans and commentators alike.
Eurosport’s commentary captured the moment with a succinct but telling reaction: “Deary me,” as Pidcock visibly laboured to keep pace. While no crash or mechanical was reported, it was clear he was struggling physically perhaps the result of fatigue from three grueling weeks of racing, or lingering effects from previous efforts in the mountains.
The Queen Stage came with more than 4,000 metres of climbing, and Pidcock, better known for his explosive efforts in one-day races and cyclocross, seemed out of his depth in the high mountains. Despite valiant attempts to limit his losses, he soon lost contact with the main group, raising questions about his condition and Q36.5’s strategy for the remaining stages.
Pidcock had entered the Giro aiming to sharpen his Grand Tour credentials, but this moment suggests there’s still work to be done. His performance in earlier stages showed flashes of brilliance, but consistency over three weeks remains a challenge.
Stage 19 proved to be a brutal reality check not just for Pidcock, but for anyone hoping to bridge the gap between classic specialist and Grand Tour contender. With just two stages left, it remains to be seen how he and his team will salvage something from this race.
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