'Saturday is the big day of truth' - Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe fear Giro d'Italia's multi-mountain stage 14 could be a battle of survival for Pellizzari and Hindley

Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe face a critical moment at the Giro d’Italia as stage 14, a demanding mountain route to Pila, approaches. The team’s co-leaders Giulio Pellizzari and Jai Hindley, both battling illness, are uncertain whether they can maintain their challenge for the general classification (GC). Despite wearing the white jersey, Pellizzari and Hindley are currently trailing the race leader Jonas Vingegaard by over two and three minutes respectively, and the gruelling stage, featuring five major climbs and a steep final ascent, is expected to be a decisive test. Stage 14’s 133km course is described as a “big day of truth” by Red Bull sports director Christian Pömer, highlighting the brutal nature of the terrain from the outset. Hindley characterised the route with his usual dry wit, warning that despite its appearance, the stage will be far from enjoyable. Both riders have struggled to recover after falling ill a week ago, a significant setback in a three-week Grand Tour where endurance and health are crucial. Hindley, currently sixth overall, remains hopeful of regaining strength for the final week, aiming to either contest the GC or target stage victories. Pellizzari, ninth overall, remains optimistic but candid about his ongoing difficulties, admitting the recovery has been tough and expressing concern about his condition following recent stages. The Italian’s initial ambitions for the Giro have been tempered by illness, and he acknowledged the challenge of the upcoming mountain test. Meanwhile, Pömer anticipates that Vingegaard and his Visma-Lease a Bike team will adopt a measured approach, conserving energy until the final climb, though the Dane’s recent performances suggest he may not be at peak condition. The battle for the maglia rosa appears set to intensify on Saturday, with Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe preparing for multiple scenarios as they seek to capitalise on any opportunities. Pömer refrained from divulging detailed tactics but emphasised the importance of resilience and adaptability given the unpredictable nature of the race. As the Giro enters its crucial mountain phase, the performances of Pellizzari and Hindley will be pivotal not only for their own ambitions but also for the broader contest behind Vingegaard’s lead.