'If it rains, it's not going to be funny' – Jasper Stuyven warns of potential danger of cobbled sprint finish in Naples at Giro d'Italia

Jasper Stuyven has issued a stark warning about the potential dangers posed by the cobbled sprint finish on stage 6 of the Giro d’Italia in Naples, particularly if rain affects the route. Although the stage appears straightforward on paper, the technical finale through the city’s tricky roads has historically been chaotic, with last year’s wet downhill section causing a mass crash that forced former winner Jai Hindley to abandon the race. The new finishing circuit includes a critical left-hand corner and a cobbled stretch leading to a U-turn before the final sprint at Piazza del Plebiscito, adding to the complexity and risk for the riders. Stuyven emphasised that the danger is not solely dependent on the road conditions but also on rider behaviour and how organisers manage narrow sections and road furniture. He noted that crashes can occur on both straightforward and technical finishes, highlighting the unpredictable nature of racing in urban environments like Naples. With weather forecasts indicating a 50% chance of rain during the stage, the polished cobbles could become treacherously slippery, raising serious safety concerns that GC teams will be keen to avoid. As one of the rider representatives for the CPA at this year’s Giro, Stuyven has been vocal about safety issues, recalling the mass crash on stage 2 and criticising the race director’s handling of the situation. He called for a collective effort from organisers, the UCI, and riders to improve safety standards without each party simply defending their own interests. His comments underline ongoing tensions in the sport regarding risk management and the need for better collaboration to protect riders. On a more positive note, Stuyven has found renewed form with Soudal-QuickStep after joining the team in 2026, delivering strong performances in the Spring Classics and playing a key role in supporting Paul Magnier’s sprint victories at the Giro’s opening stages. He expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and spirit, suggesting that their momentum could prove decisive in navigating the challenging finish in Naples. With Magnier aiming for a third stage win, Stuyven’s experience and tactical acumen may be crucial in securing further success amid the unpredictable conditions.