Nico Denz reveals what powered him to victory on stage 14: "I thought: it's all or nothing"

BORA - hansgrohe's Nico Denz was brilliant as he powered his way to victory for the second time at the 2023 Giro d'Italia on stage 14 and speaking afterwards he revealed his secret to success.

Victory for Denz wasn't always assured. Part of a chasing group going into the final kilometres, the German gave everything to bridge the gap and then take the win. "Was given the opportunity to jump with the break from the start. I used that again. Trek-Segafredo, Israel-Premier Tech and Movistar all had multiple riders with them," he recalls. "At one point I thought we lost it, because it seemed we couldn't close the gap."

When Denz and co did eventually close the gap, the German was at the front and decided to lead from the front, just as he did when taking his previous victory. Despite a brave effort by Derek Gee, Denz took the win in a photo finish.

"I still felt really good and followed. We almost got to it, but then they stopped driving. Then I thought: it's all or nothing. I don't want to be fourth, I've already won. I'm going for the win. I closed the gap, after which Bettiol started his sprint. I jumped on his wheel and went full throttle towards the line. It's crazy," says Denz. “Today was very tough. When we drove down the Simplon Pass it was freezing cold. I had three jackets on, drank hot tea, but it was really awful. In the end, it's about attitude and determination. I knew that I am very, very good. I got the chance to try it and of course I am very happy.”