The second week wraps up on roads and climbs steeped in World War I history. Stage 15, from Fiume Veneto to Asiago (217 km), serves up a double helping of suffering: the iconic ascent of Monte Grappa and a finish atop the Altopiano. With the third and final rest day looming, the peloton may unleash its creativity, attacking this tactically intriguing stage with full intent. Those chasing back time on GC can’t afford to wait – today offers the perfect terrain to shake things up.
After around 100 relatively uneventful kilometers -punctuated only by the iconic Muro di Ca’ del Poggio (cat. 4, 1.1 km at 12.3%) – the riders will face the imposing Monte Grappa (cat. 1, 25.1 km at 5.7%).
Tackled from the Romano d’Ezzelino side, Grappa is longer but overall more forgiving. However, with the summit coming a full 90 km from the finish, it’s unlikely to be the launchpad for GC fireworks, though it will wear down the legs.
The real showdown is more likely to erupt on the Climb to Dori (cat. 2, 16.4 km at 5.4%), where the gradients bite a bit deeper and the Red Bull KM of Enego adds spice mid-ascent. With the summit just 26 km from the finish, expect attacks to fly here.
From there, it’s a relentless rollercoaster of ups and downs leading into Asiago, where punchy riders or late solo artists might just have their day.
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The climbs of Monte Grappa and Dori are likely too far from the finish to trigger all-out warfare among the GC contenders – though it wouldn’t be a surprise if Ineos Grenadiers tried to turn the screws once again, as they’ve done nearly every day so far.
A successful breakaway remains the most probable scenario. Keep an eye on Maglia Azzurra Lorenzo Fortunato, who could target maximum KOM points on Monte Grappa. Also watch for the likes of Luke Plapp (Jayco AlUla), Nairo Quintana (Movistar), and Pello Bilbao (Bahrain Victorious) – just a few of the many riders likely to throw their hats into the breakaway mix
Fiume Veneto – Asiago
Length: 217 km
Elevation gain: 3900 meters
Start: 11:25 a.m.
KM 0: 11:35 a.m.
LIVE coverage starts: 09:50 a.m.
Finish: around 5:15 p.m.
