'I saw this moment' - How Alec Segaert left no room for error in quest for stage victory at the Giro d'Italia

Alec Segaert secured his maiden Grand Tour stage victory on stage 12 of the Giro d’Italia, a 175km route from Imperia to Novi Ligure. The 23-year-old Bahrain-Victorious rider executed a well-timed attack with three kilometres remaining, breaking away from a reduced peloton to hold off the chasers and cross the line first. His triumph was celebrated alongside teammate and race leader Afonso Eulálio, who continues to wear the maglia rosa, underscoring a significant moment for the team. Segaert’s win was the result of meticulous preparation, having analysed the stage profile the night before using VeloViewer to identify the ideal point for his offensive move. He emphasised the importance of understanding his strengths and the race terrain, which allowed him to adapt to the race dynamics and seize the opportunity when it arose. Despite a disappointing performance in the previous day’s 42km time trial, where he struggled physically, Segaert remained focused on his broader goals within the Giro, aiming to capitalise on stages suited to his abilities. Reflecting on the victory, Segaert expressed gratitude for the team’s support and the freedom to pursue his own ambitions alongside defending the pink jersey. He acknowledged that while he may not win frequently, he is determined to make the most of every chance he gets, highlighting the challenge and satisfaction of achieving success in such a competitive environment. His measured approach and self-awareness about his capabilities have been key factors in his development and recent breakthrough. Afonso Eulálio, who extended his overall lead by six seconds to 33 seconds ahead of Jonas Vingegaard, praised the team’s camaraderie and resilience throughout the race. He noted the positive atmosphere within the squad, attributing part of Segaert’s success to their close relationship, even joking about sharing “pink-jersey power” as roommates. The team’s unity and collective effort have been instrumental in maintaining momentum during a demanding Giro, signalling strong prospects for the remainder of the race.