
The stage ending in Naples went to Kaden Groves, who with great skill in the finale made an extraordinary comeback, overtaking all his rivals.
The sixth day of racing for Alpecin-Deceuninck was very conflicting, because on one hand they won the stage, but they also saw Juri Hollmann's withdrawal after being involved in a group crash.
"We are not yet sure about Juri's condition - Groves explained in the press conference - It was a bad crash for many riders. And then came the neutralization, so yes, my feelings are very mixed".
The race management and jury immediately thought about the riders' safety and therefore the stage was neutralized until the finish line. Many riders appeared troubled because they didn't know exactly what had happened to their teammates.
"At the beginning we didn't know if we would race or not, and then we learned about the decision. The situation was mentally difficult because we get tired, get cold and then have to start racing again. And then I was thinking about Juri. The team and he have made so many sacrifices and he arrived here in excellent form. I'm sorry because he was really very unlucky".
The stage was neutralized, but there was still a sprint for the victory, although without bonus seconds and points for various classifications.
"After the incident everything happened quickly. But we didn't know exactly what had happened and who was involved. It happened in front of me, but probably I was quick enough to slow down and avoid the crash. But I think it's just a matter of slippery roads, wheels touching and when the first one slides, then there are always chain reactions and you can't do much to avoid the crash".
In the final kilometers, the extended group increased the pace, catching the two breakaway riders. There was an attack by Van Aert, but he was also caught. "The last kilometers became more technical due to the rain, obviously also because of wet stones. That's why position was very important to arrive safe beyond the finish line. Facing the last corners at the front is not ideal for the legs, but it means having a clear view of the road conditions, because if you're too far back you risk falling".
The stage neutralization came quickly and the riders appreciated the jury's collaboration that immediately thought about the riders' safety.
"I think crashes will always happen, so I have no problem waiting for my teammates and the rest of the group to regroup. Obviously I don't like stopping, because you get cold and doubts about resuming start. But I have no problems with the neutralization because without the group we have no race. And even if we are rivals, there must still be mutual respect because one day you are not involved in the incident, but the next day it could happen to your entire team. Personally, I have no problem with the stage neutralization, because ultimately it makes the race a bit safer. I think whoever wants to take the risk of sprinting should be free to do so, but it's right to also respect those who don't want to do it".
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