THEMOVE Podcast Episode Summary: Giro d'Italia Stage 10 Analysis & Stage 11 Preview

Release Date: May 20, 2025

In this episode of THEMOVE, hosts Spencer Martin and Johan Berniel delve deep into the recent developments of the Giro d'Italia, focusing on the analysis of Stage 10's time trial and providing a comprehensive preview of the challenging Stage 11. The discussion offers insightful breakdowns of rider performances, shifts in the general classification (GC), team strategies, and predictions for upcoming stages.

1. Stage 10 Time Trial Analysis

Overview of Stage 10 Results

Stage 10 featured a formidable time trial that significantly impacted the GC standings. Spencer Martin opens the discussion by highlighting the unexpected victories and the tight race dynamics.

• Dan Houle's Victory:

  • Spencer Martin at [01:00]: "Dan Houle wins the time trial, marking the fourth stage victory for the Little Track team so far."
  • Johan Berniel at [03:28]: "He's a Dutch champion time trialist and this marks his first real win in a Grand Tour setting."

• Podium Finishers:

  • Spencer Martin mentions Josh Tarling finishing second, six seconds behind Houle, and Ethan Hayter securing third place, trailing by approximately 10 seconds.

Impact on General Classification

The time trial results brought unexpected shifts in the GC:

• Primus Roglic Takes the Lead:

  • Spencer Martin at [02:00]: "Primus Roglic emerges as the GC leader, placing him within 118 seconds of Isaac Del Toro."
  • Johan Berniel at [06:23]: "Roglic's strong finish in the last 8-9 kilometers is a testament to his resilience, especially after recovering from earlier crashes."

• Isaac Del Toro and Juana Ayuso:

  • Spencer Martin notes that Del Toro remains in the lead, but Ayuso has narrowed the gap significantly, now only 25 seconds behind him.

Key Performances and Incidents

• Dan Houle's Dominance:

  • Johan Berniel at [03:52]: "Houle maintained a steady performance, especially excelling in the latter part of the course."

• Crashes and Setbacks:

  • Johan Berniel at [04:30]: "Primos Roglic suffered another crash during the recon of the time trial, impacting his overall standing but demonstrating his determination to stay in the race."

2. General Classification Contenders Post Stage 10

Isaac Del Toro vs. Juana Ayuso

• Spencer Martin at [05:35]: "Isaac Del Toro leads the GC, but Juana Ayuso is rapidly closing in, now just 25 seconds behind."

Primus Roglic's Resilience

• Johan Berniel at [07:34]: "Roglic's performance today is a morale booster, especially after his crashes. Being back within 118 seconds of Del Toro positions him as a formidable contender."

Simon Yates' Surprising Surge

• Johan Berniel at [10:10]: "Simon Yates has showcased impressive form, now sitting fourth in the GC, only 103 seconds behind the leader, Isaac Del Toro. This positions him as a significant threat in the upcoming mountain stages."

• Spencer Martin at [12:08]: "Yates' rise is unexpected and adds complexity to UAE's strategy, as his climbing prowess could challenge the current leaders in the upcoming stages."

Team UAE's Strategy and Concerns

• Johan Berniel at [14:07]: "With Del Toro and Ayuso leading, UAE must manage internal dynamics, especially with Ayuso expressing his desire to lead the team to a Giro victory."

• Spencer Martin at [15:38]: "UAE's primary concern lies in Simon Yates and Primus Roglic, who are closing the gap and could unsettle the current GC standings."

3. Stage 11 Preview

Challenging Stage Profile

Stage 11 is poised to be one of the toughest stages yet, featuring the grueling San Pellegrino climb:

• Climb Details:

  • Spencer Martin at [23:07]: "The stage includes a 14 km climb at an average gradient of 8.5%, making it a decisive point for GC contenders."

• Additional Climbs:

  • Spencer Martin outlines additional climbs, including a 5.8 km ascent at 6.5%, adding to the stage's difficulty.

Likely Breakaway and Stage Favorites

• Johan Berniel at [24:42]: "This stage is expected to see a breakaway, given its tough profile and the difficulty in controlling such a long race day."

• Predictions:

  • Johan Berniel at [25:53]: "I predict Wild Poles from the breakaway will seize the stage victory, given his climbing strengths."
  • Spencer Martin at [27:18]: "Max Pool is also a strong contender, offering good value at +1600 odds due to his climbing abilities and recent performance."

Strategic Team Movements

• Johan Berniel at [28:26]: "Aina Rubio from Movistar, despite being +8000, is another potential stage winner. His placement in the break could complicate UAE's defensive strategies."

• Spencer Martin at [29:52]: "Given the stage's demands, UAE might need to employ a mix of defensive tactics to manage the breakaway and protect their GC riders."

4. Strategic Insights and Final Thoughts

Team Dynamics and Future Stages

• Johan Berniel at [33:25]: "UAE will need to carefully manage the pace on the San Pellegrino to prevent significant time losses, ensuring their top riders stay within reach."

• Spencer Martin at [35:03]: "The upcoming stage's difficulty will test the GC contenders' endurance and strategic acumen, setting the tone for the latter half of the Giro."

Final Reflections

• Johan Berniel emphasizes the unpredictability of the Giro, especially after intense time trials and challenging climbs, highlighting the ever-changing landscape of the race.

• Spencer Martin wraps up by encouraging listeners to tune in for the next episode, promising an in-depth breakdown of Stage 11 and its implications for the overall race.

Notable Quotes:

• Johan Berniel at [14:07]: "We're here as a team. We want to win as a team with UAE. It's my dream to win the Giro."

• Spencer Martin at [17:56]: "Roglic has gotten his confidence back. The time trial is the race of truth, and his strong finish is a great boost for his morale."

• Johan Berniel at [24:42]: "This is a breakaway stage, and I'm going to pick Wild Poles from the breakaway to win Stage 11."

This episode provides a thorough analysis of the Giro d'Italia's current state, offering listeners valuable insights into rider performances, team strategies, and what to expect in the upcoming stages. Spencer Martin and Johan Berniel adeptly navigate the complexities of the race, making this episode a must-listen for cycling enthusiasts seeking an insider's perspective.