‘We're still on track to finish on the podium' - Jai Hindley and Giulio Pellizzari fight back to target new goals in third week of the Giro d'Italia

Jai Hindley and Giulio Pellizzari of Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe have staged a determined comeback in the Giro d’Italia after a challenging second week marked by illness and setbacks. Both riders endured physical difficulties, with Pellizzari suffering digestive issues and Hindley battling a persistent cough, which threatened their general classification (GC) ambitions. However, their strong performance on the mountain stage to Pila has revitalised their hopes, allowing them to approach the final week of the race with renewed confidence and clear targets. Currently, Hindley sits fifth overall, trailing race leader Jonas Vingegaard by just under four minutes, while Pellizzari occupies sixth place and remains a strong contender for the white jersey awarded to the best young rider. Despite losing time to Vingegaard and other GC rivals earlier in the race, the duo managed to claw back ground on several contenders during the mountainous stages. Their resilience and tactical riding have kept them firmly in contention as the race heads into its most demanding phase. Both riders expressed cautious optimism ahead of the crucial third week, which features several punishing climbs including the stage to Carì in Switzerland and the Dolomites’ ascent to Alleghe. Hindley acknowledged the unpredictability of racing immediately after a rest day, emphasising the importance of maintaining focus and energy. Pellizzari highlighted the difficulty of the upcoming stages but remained upbeat about their prospects, noting that every day will be a test and that they intend to ride aggressively. The pair also remain mindful of the dominant Visma-Lease a Bike team and leader Vingegaard, recognising the challenge they present but refusing to concede defeat. Pellizzari remarked that the Giro is far from over and that Vingegaard will continue to push hard until the finish in Rome. Hindley and Pellizzari plan to capitalise on any potential slip-ups while pursuing their own goals, aiming to secure a podium finish and a white jersey victory respectively. As the race enters its decisive phase, Red Bull-Bora-hansgrohe’s riders embody resilience and ambition, fighting back from adversity to keep their podium dreams alive. Their performances in the coming days will be crucial not only for their personal ambitions but also for the team’s standing in one of cycling’s most prestigious Grand Tours. The final week promises intense competition and tactical intrigue as the Giro d’Italia approaches its dramatic conclusion.