'A big disappointment' – Ineos GC 'priorities' leave Ben Turner wondering at Giro d'Italia after dropping to help Egan Bernal and missing out on stage win

Ben Turner found himself reflecting on what might have been after stage 4 of the Giro d’Italia, where his efforts to support team leader Egan Bernal ultimately cost him a chance at a stage victory. Turner sprinted to fourth place in a reduced group finish in Cosenza but revealed that his energy had been spent helping Bernal, who was dropped on the key climb of the day. With only Turner and GC co-leader Thymen Arensman able to stay with Bernal’s group, the British rider took on the responsibility of closing a 30-second gap, successfully reeling the Colombian champion back before the finish. The day’s tactical approach was clear from the outset, with Ineos prioritising their general classification ambitions over individual stage glory. Veteran Jack Haig confirmed that the team’s plan was to protect Bernal and Arensman through the challenging terrain, with Turner and Filippo Ganna positioned to contest the finish if possible. Despite Ganna struggling on the climb, Turner’s performance was praised as a sign of good form heading into the tougher stages ahead, even if it meant sacrificing his own chances of a win on the day. Both Turner and Haig acknowledged Bernal’s current struggles, attributing them to a disrupted preparation and a minor knee issue that has limited his racing this season. While Haig expressed concern about Bernal’s form, Turner remained optimistic, describing the rider’s difficulties as a normal part of the build-up and stressing the team’s continued confidence in the 2021 Giro champion. The upcoming Blockhaus climb on stage 7 is now shaping up as a crucial test for Bernal, with the team hoping he can find his best legs to challenge the race favourites. Turner’s fourth-place finish, though tinged with disappointment, underscored his versatility and value to Ineos as both a support rider and a potential stage contender. His willingness to prioritise team objectives over personal ambitions highlights the complex dynamics within a Grand Tour squad. As the race progresses, the balance between protecting GC hopes and seizing stage opportunities will remain a key narrative for Ineos and their riders.