'You always have to fight' - Downhill attack sees Elisa Longo Borghini move closer to maglia rosa before penultimate queen stage

Elisa Longo Borghini demonstrated remarkable determination on the penultimate stage of the Giro d’Italia Women, launching a daring attack on the descent of the final climb. Although she did not secure bonus seconds, Longo Borghini managed to finish five seconds ahead of the main peloton, which included race leader Anna van der Breggen, who suffered a significant crash earlier in the stage. The stage victory went to Célia Gery, who outsprinted Lucinda Brand and Chantal Pegolo in Salice Terme, while Longo Borghini crossed the line in fifth place behind Canada’s Alison Jackson. Currently sitting sixth overall, Longo Borghini is now 2 minutes and 7 seconds behind van der Breggen but has narrowed the gap to second-placed Demi Vollering to just 1 minute and 7 seconds. The Italian champion’s recent performances come after a challenging start to the race, having lost nearly two minutes to van der Breggen in the Nevegal time trial and additional time on a previous mountain stage. Her progress has been hindered by a chest infection contracted earlier in the season, which disrupted her training and preparation for the Giro. Despite these setbacks, Longo Borghini remains resolute in her pursuit of a top-five or podium finish. She emphasised the importance of perseverance, stating that continual effort and resilience are essential in professional cycling. Her attack on the descent was supported by her UAE Team ADQ teammate Silvia Persico, who worked tirelessly to maintain their advantage during the breakaway. Although the lead group’s advantage diminished in the closing kilometres, Longo Borghini’s aggressive move highlighted her fighting spirit and tactical acumen ahead of the decisive queen stage. The upcoming Colle delle Finestre stage represents a critical opportunity for Longo Borghini to further close the gap to the maglia rosa and shake up the general classification. With only a handful of seconds separating her from riders immediately ahead in the standings, the mountain challenge will test her recovery and climbing prowess. As the race approaches its climax, Longo Borghini’s bold tactics and determination could prove pivotal in shaping the final podium positions at this prestigious women’s Grand Tour.