Fernando Gaviria: "Second wasn’t the result we wanted but we have to accept it"

Fernando Gaviria has with no doubt been consistent, but in Reggio Emilia today a second place didn't come as a positive result as he has once again just barely missed out on the win. The UAE Team Emirates sprinter has finished second to Alberto Dainese in today's thrilling stage at the Giro d'Italia.

Second wasn’t the result we wanted but we have to accept it. The legs are good but today Dainese was just faster," Gaviria admitted after the finish line. After a third place in Balatonfüred, second in Messina where he experienced bike issues in the sprint, and a relegation due to a move from Dainese himself back in Scalea, it seemed as if stage 11 could finally be the day the Colombian has been working for since returning from injury at the Tour de Romandie.

However, Gaviria went on to finish second, ahead of the likes of Démare, Cavendish and Ewan, but behind the young Team DSM sprinter. "There was a tailwind so we went a bit earlier than usual but he took a good win so well done to him," he added.

Opportunities are starting to run out, and despite the good run of results Gaviria has today gotten his fifth podium place in a bunch sprint in the space of three weeks, with no win to his name. In Cuneo this Friday he should once again be at the forefront, where he'll hope to have better luck. He concluded: "The form is where I want it to be and I’m really gunning to get a first victory here at this Giro."