Rota attacked with 56 kilometers to go, joined by stage winner Stefano Oldani and Gijs Leemreize. The trio collaborated and resisted the approach of the remaining of the chasing group, and went into the finish together to fight for the team in a sprint. "In our leading trio I knew that Gijs Leemreize had to go from far. His attack was painful for the legs after more than 200 kilometer, but with Stefano Oldani we managed to get back rapidly," he said.
However in the small uphill rise to the line, the 26-year old didn't have the legs to take the win: "I wanted to stay in the slipstream of Oldani as long as possible and pass him at the right moment. But he was just faster," he added.
This won't however be the final opportunity for the
Intermarché - Wanty - Gobert Matériaux rider. With Biniam Girmay out of the Giro, the team now carries more freedom to attack the hilly stages in which Rota has a chance of winning."I’m of course disappointed to miss the victory, but I look on the bright side. We’re only halfway though this Giro and my feeling is getting better day by day. More opportunities to embellish our Giro before the finish in Verona will come," Rota concluded.
