Italian Filippo Ghana, a rider for Team Jayco-Alula, won Stage 18 of the Giro d'Italia on Thursday, overcoming a challenge from Thibaut Pinot. The 18th stage was designed for climbers, extending over a distance of 161 kilometers, with Ghana defeating Pinot from Groupama-FDJ, crossing the finish line to secure his first victory in the Giro. Warren Barguil from Arkéa-Samsic finished in third place.
Pinot and Ghana were part of a group of six riders who broke away from the main pack, leading by 4 and a half minutes with just 10 kilometers to go, before the duo distanced themselves from their competitors on the steep Alpine roads.
Geraint Thomas solidified his lead in the overall standings, now 29 seconds ahead of his closest rival. Meanwhile, Primož Roglič surpassed his competitor João Almeida from Team UAE, securing second place.
Thursday's stage served as a warm-up for Stage 19, set for Friday, which will stretch over 183 kilometers and include several climbs.
