Giro d'Italia 'more exciting than ever' but Ineos hold 'best cards' after Remco Evenepoel exit - Jens Voigt exclusive

Jens Voigt believes Ineos Grenadiers can take control of the Giro d’Italia following Remco Evenepoel’s withdrawal – and thinks the race is “more exciting than ever”. Soudal-Quick Step’s Evenepoel was leading the general classification by 45 seconds after winning the Stage 9 time trial. Ad But he withdrew ahead of the first rest day following a positive Covid-19 test.

Giro d'ItaliaExclusive: Evenepoel 'must be broken' at withdrawal as 'new Giro begins' — ContadorAN HOUR AGO The announcement means Geraint Thomas (Ineos Grenadiers) now leads the Giro by three seconds from Primoz Roglic (Jumbo-Visma). Ineos also have former Giro champion Tao Geoghegan Hart in third place, just five seconds off the lead. Ahead of the race resuming with Stage 10 on Tuesday, Eurosport expert Voigt outlined what he thinks Evenepoel’s exit means for the general classification battle.

«The Giro is open and exciting as never before,” said Voigt. “I can't remember a Grand Tour where the first three riders were within five seconds of each other after more than 100km. The competitors for the podium all look equally strong and balanced.

»From now on, every stage will be super exciting. Every single second will be at stake. «Ineos Grenadiers certainly look the strongest now — they have their captain in the leader's jersey and a very strong young rider in third.

They have shown in the last few days that they are the strongest team. Thomas to wear pink jersey on Stage 10 Evenepoel out of Giro after positive Covid-19 test “When it matters, they are in front in the block, controlling and dominating the race. Thomas and Geoghegan Hart certainly have the best cards to win the Giro now.