"That is just a big finger to Pogacar, like: 'I have it earlier than you.'": Jonas Vingegaard completes Grand Tour trilogy with Piancavallo masterclass
Cycling
Jonas Vingegaard put on another spectacular show on the climb to Piancavallo on stage 20 of the Giro d'Italia. Because his team looked a little more vulnerable on the climbs than on previous days, the Dane decided to launch a solo move with more than ten kilometers left to the line. Nobody could match his acceleration, paving the way for his fifth stage victory of this Giro d'Italia.
Joining the immortal club on Piancavallo
With this victory, Vingegaard joins an elite group of cycling legends (Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Felice Gimondi, Bernard Hinault, Alberto Contador, Vincenzo Nibali, and Chris Froome) who have won all three Grand Tours at least once.
Reflecting on the Stage 20 performance, analyst Bobbie Traksel pointed out that the most frightening aspect of the Dane's run was his upward trajectory throughout the three weeks, while his main rivals had nothing left to give in the final days. "He has grown. He didn't even need to be at one hundred percent, because the finishing touches still need to be put on it towards the Tour de France."
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While Traksel noted that Vingegaard is not a very outspoken person, he emphasized that the rider's quiet demeanor hides a very competitive mindset. "I am often critical of him that he is boring. I still think that. Also that he then doesn't take over a turn from Felix Gall... He is also not outspoken, but inside he is a killer."
He also mentioned that completing the Grand Tour trilogy ahead of Tadej Pogacar sends a clear message to his rival. "I saw a video this week when he booked his fiftieth victory that he could name all his victories. Who can do that? He is also simply earlier with the trilogy than Pogacar. That is just a big finger to Pogacar, like: 'I have it earlier than you.'"
Jonas Vingegaard and his Visma teammates showered in confetti at the 2026 Giro d'Italia
A bittersweet fourth for Thymen Arensman
The final day in the mountains also confirmed fourth place overall for Thymen Arensman. While this is the best Grand Tour result of his career, finishing just off the final podium remains a tough outcome to accept. Traksel discussed the mixed emotions the Netcompany INEOS rider will face during his upcoming rest period.
"I think he can be proud. He got the maximum out of it, but he is going to wake up a few times over the coming month that he lost the podium. Fourth place is truly a terrible spot."
Félix SernaCycling Journalist
Félix Serna is a writer at CyclingUpToDate and has been part of the team since 2025. He covers professional cycling across both the men’s and women’s calendars, with a focus on UCI rankings, race developments, and rider performance. His work includes interview-based reports, liveblogs, and tournament coverage designed to provide clear, accurate context throughout the season.
In his reporting, Félix regularly uses ProCyclingStats for results, statistics, and historical reference. He places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. He holds a bachelor’s degree in International Studies.
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