'Don't be like this guy' – police report Giro d'Italia spectators who lunged at riders

Two spectators at the Giro d’Italia’s sixth stage caused a dangerous incident when they lunged at the peloton near San Vitaliano with around 50 kilometres remaining. The two men, aged 19 and 20, ran onto the road in an attempt to touch the riders, with a third individual recording the episode. Although no crashes occurred, one rider from Soudal Quick-Step was slapped on the leg during the episode, raising concerns about the risks posed by such reckless behaviour. Italian police swiftly identified and reported the two men to the public prosecutor’s office in Nola for endangering participants during a sporting event. While the pair remain free pending further action, they face possible sanctions including a DASPO banning order from sporting events and fines. The authorities’ response underscores the seriousness with which safety breaches at major cycling races are treated, aiming to deter similar conduct in the future. Riders themselves expressed frustration at the incident, highlighting the dangers of spectators not appreciating the speeds and risks involved. Alberto Bettiol of XDS Astana, who witnessed the event firsthand, recounted how former race leader Thomas Silva told the offenders to “go to hell,” emphasising the potential for injury if contact is made. Davide Ballerini, who won the stage, called for mutual respect between fans and riders, acknowledging the enthusiasm of supporters but stressing the importance of safe conduct. The official Giro d’Italia social media channels also issued a firm reminder to fans to respect the race and its participants. The organisers praised the passion of the tifosi but warned that there are boundaries that must not be crossed, urging spectators not to emulate the dangerous behaviour displayed. This incident serves as a timely reminder of the delicate balance between fan engagement and rider safety in the high-speed, high-stakes environment of professional cycling.