“I bet on a sprint and it worked out well" - Filippo Zana takes emotional Giro d'Italia stage win in the Italian national champions jersey

Filippo Zana has been one of the stars of the 2023 Giro d'Italia without getting much reward so far. That all changed on stage 18 as the Italian national champion took a brilliant mountain top stage win.

“I have to thank the team, because they gave me this opportunity. It's my first year in the WorldTour and they have prepared me the best they can for this Giro," said the Team Jayco AlUla in his post-stage interview. "Today we could play my card. I really have to thank the team, all my teammates. I still can't quite believe this happened.”

In a thrilling finish to the stage, Zana came into the finale alongside Thibaut Pinot. With the Frenchman riding in his final Giro d'Italia, Pinot was desperate to take the win. Zana though, would not be denied and in a final sprint for the line it was Zana who took the victory.

“I won't experience a moment like that very often in my career,” said Zana. “I bet on a sprint and it worked out well. I am glad I took my chance.”