"I gave everything out there” - Egan Bernal's Maglia Rosa dreams look over after stage 17 disappointment at the Giro d'Italia

Egan Bernal endured a tough day on Stage 17 of the 2025 Giro d’Italia, losing valuable time to his main rivals in the general classification. The Colombian rider for INEOS Grenadiers finished 12th on the stage, conceding 1:10 to stage winner Isaac del Toro (excluding time bonuses), 1:06 to Richard Carapaz, 55 seconds to Simon Yates, and 54 seconds to the rest of the GC favourites.

Despite the setback, Bernal remained upbeat and determined in his post-race comments. “We gave it another go today — this is just how racing goes. Two or three guys are incredibly strong at the moment. It was a good day overall, and there’s still a lot of Giro left. What matters is that I gave everything out there,” he said at the finish.

He emphasised that he’s far from done in this race, underlining the competitive spirit that has defined his career. “Of course, we all want to win and be up front. I’m a competitor at heart, and I love this job. I love pushing myself, working hard, and trying to be in the mix, like I did today. I gave it my all, and I’m going to keep giving it.”

Bernal also took time to praise Isaac del Toro, who claimed his first career Grand Tour stage win. The young Mexican rider for UAE Team Emirates - XRG not only secured the stage victory but also extended his lead in the general classification. After narrowly holding onto the Maglia Rosa the previous day, many had expected Carapaz to take over — yet Del Toro silenced the doubters with a commanding performance.

“I’m really happy for Del Toro,” Bernal said. “He’s a great guy and deserves all the good things that are coming his way.”

Following the stage, Bernal remains in sixth place overall. However, his deficit to the race leader has grown: he now trails Del Toro by 4 minutes and 43 seconds. He is also 3:52 away from the podium, currently occupied by Britain’s Simon Yates of Team Visma | Lease a Bike, and 1:37 behind fifth-placed Damiano Caruso of Bahrain Victorious.