It’s a day for the break or a day for the sprinters if they have the legs, the heart and the energy to chase the inevitable break. One thing it’s not is a day for the GC guys to do much work other than staying safe and together.

Wednesday 28th May: Stage 17: Sarnonico to Vittorio Veneto, flat, 204km

Sandwiched between two mega mountain days (that’s the official classification), this stage is one of those flats that has three cat 4 climbs. Still, after what the peloton has just been through – and looking at what is to come on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, they could be forgiven for thinking this will be an easier day. There are, however, some evil gradients on the last climb of the day, the Muro di Ca’ del Poggio, which averages 12% and goes maximum at 18%.

With the GC teams resting up and the sprinters’ teams tired and, in many cases, depleted in numbers, there’s a big chance of a break getting away and staying away. Watch out for riders from teams who have lacked for results (and TV time!) so far to be keen to get men in the escape. This is the kind of day which is usually a routine sprint in the opening week but often produces a surprise winner from the break in the third week.

Link: Official website