'I didn't really expect it' – Paul Magnier powers to Giro d'Italia hat-trick on stage 18

Paul Magnier of Soudal Quick-Step secured a remarkable third stage win at the Giro d’Italia on stage 18, held in Pieve di Soligo. The 22-year-old Frenchman triumphed in a bunch sprint on wet roads, adding to his earlier victories from the opening week of the race. This latest success also allowed Magnier to reclaim the ciclamino jersey, awarded to the leader of the points classification, with a comfortable margin over his closest rival, Jhonatan Narvaez. The stage presented a challenging route of 171km across the north-east of Italy, featuring two categorized climbs including a steep category four ascent just 10km from the finish. Despite the undulating terrain that threatened the sprinters’ chances, the peloton regrouped after aggressive attacks, notably from former maglia rosa Alfonso Eulálio. The decisive moment came in the final kilometres when Magnier, expertly positioned by teammate Jasper Stuyven, launched his sprint to claim a clear victory. Magnier expressed surprise and delight at his performance, admitting he had not expected to win after struggling earlier in the stage, including being dropped on the first climb. He praised his team’s support and highlighted the personal significance of his triple stage haul, along with holding the pink jersey and the points jersey for much of the race. His achievements have exceeded his own expectations and mark a breakthrough moment in his young career. Meanwhile, Jonas Vingegaard retained the overall race lead, maintaining a 4:03 advantage over Felix Gall in the general classification. The stage’s outcome reinforced the ongoing battle between sprinters and general classification contenders, with the race dynamics shaped by tactical moves on the climbs and the final sprint. As the Giro progresses, Magnier’s form will be closely watched, and his ability to continue challenging for stage wins adds an exciting dimension to the event.