THEMOVE: Giro d'Italia Stage 14 Analysis & Stage 15 Preview | THEMOVE+

Release Date: May 24, 2025
Host: Lance Armstrong
Guests: Spencer Martin and Johan

1. Introduction

In this episode of THEMOVE, hosts Spencer Martin and Johan delve deep into the intricacies of Giro d'Italia's Stage 14, offering a comprehensive analysis of the day's events and setting the stage for Stage 15. Skipping over the advertisements, the conversation kicks off at 00:49, focusing solely on the race dynamics and strategic maneuvers that unfolded.

2. Stage 14 Breakdown

Spencer Martin initiates the discussion by recounting the day's race trajectory:

"It was a 195-kilometer stage that I thought would be routine, perhaps ending in a bunch sprint. However, the day took an unexpected turn with a significant super breakaway led by Wout Van Art and Casper Askren." (01:26)

The initial breakaway saw aggressive participation from teams like Tudor and VF Bardiani, leading to a frantic chase. Despite the efforts, the break was eventually caught. The stage intensified with shifting dynamics, including a sudden rain shower and a crash that significantly impacted the General Classification (GC) contenders.

3. Caspar Askren’s Impressive Stage Win

A pivotal moment in the discussion centers around Caspar Askren's stage victory:

"Askren holds on for a really incredible stage win. Super impressive stage. When he was actually gaining time in the final kilometers, I thought he had no chance at the middle." (03:00)

Johan highlights the rarity and significance of Askren's win:

"Today was a stage win in real Askren fashion. Purely, he was the motor of those three guys. He did the majority of the work." (04:36)

They commend Askren's strategic prowess and physical endurance, noting his ability to seize opportunities even in seemingly routine stages.

4. Impact on the General Classification

The episode delves into the repercussions of the crashes on the GC:

"The fact of the day is another crash which impacts heavily the GC. There are two big crashes—the gravel stage and today's stage—that have significantly influenced the GC standings." (14:00)

Key takeaways include:

• Isaac Del Toro and Richard Carapaz remained largely unscathed, with Del Toro extending his lead.
• Primoz Roglic and Juan USO found themselves in a chase group, losing valuable time.
• Antonio Tiberi suffered the most, losing approximately 1 minute and 44 seconds (16:03).

Spencer reflects on the day’s outcome:

"If Del Toro can't make up six seconds, Simon Yates wins this Giro because Del Toro collapses and ISO can't make up six seconds on him. That's a bigger problem." (17:34)

The discussion underscores the unpredictable nature of cycling races, where crashes and weather conditions can dramatically alter the standings.

5. Corrections and Updates

The hosts address an earlier mistake regarding the location of the Mountain Bike World Cup:

"We mentioned the mountain bike World Cup race in Novo Mesto. There's actually two Novomestos. This one is in the Czech Republic." (23:48)

Additionally, they clarify that Matthew Vanderpool did not race in the short track due to insufficient points, with Christopher Blevins and Puck securing victories in the men's and women's categories, respectively.

6. Stage 15 Preview

Looking ahead, Stage 15 promises to be a 220-kilometer challenge featuring:

• Monte Grappa: A 25-kilometer climb at an average of 5.7%.
• Additional Climbs: A subsequent 16.6-kilometer climb at 5.3% with a bonus second sprint.
• Asiago Plateau: Rolling terrain reminiscent of the 2017 Giro, potentially setting up a GC group finish.

Spencer outlines the stage's demands:

"Monte Grappa is a long, arduous climb that will test the riders' endurance and strategic planning." (28:09)

7. Predictions and Strategic Insights

Johan shares his expectations for Stage 15, suggesting a breakaway victory and naming Wout Poles as a potential stage winner:

"My pick tomorrow for the win from the breakaway is Wout Poles. He's an experienced rider who knows how to manage breakaways effectively." (30:25)

Spencer, however, leans towards Roman Bardet, praising his recent form and motivation:

"Roman Bardet looks very fit and motivated. I think he could win the stage." (31:45)

The conversation also touches upon the strategic decisions of teams, particularly the UAE team's confidence in Del Toro, and the implications of weather conditions on the upcoming stage.

8. Closing Remarks

As the episode wraps up, the hosts mention the weather forecast, with a 20% chance of precipitation and reminisce about the unpredictability of cycling races:

"Mountain stages with bad weather are never fun. Let's hope they stay dry for Stage 15." (35:36)

They also provide a brief update on the podcast schedule, noting a rest day show on Monday before returning to regular programming on Tuesday.

Notable Quotes:

• "Caspar Askren holds on for a really incredible stage win. Super impressive stage." – Spencer Martin (03:00)
• "Today was a stage win in real Askren fashion. Purely, he was the motor of those three guys." – Johan (04:36)
• "The fact of the day is another crash which impacts heavily the GC." – Johan (14:00)
• "Roman Bardet looks very fit and motivated. I think he could win the stage." – Spencer Martin (31:45)

This detailed analysis provides listeners with a thorough understanding of the pivotal moments in Stage 14, the shifting dynamics in the General Classification, and insightful predictions for the challenging Stage 15. Whether you're a seasoned cycling enthusiast or a casual fan, this episode offers valuable perspectives from insiders deeply entrenched in the racing action.