De Plus reminisced about the 2016 Giro d’Italia when Steven Kruijswijk lost the pink jersey, and Vincenzo Nibali took control in the final mountain stage. Thomas also recalls losing the Giro two years ago to Primoz Roglic during the last opportunity. “The significant difference for me was that I tried, and Kruijswijk did too. Del Toro and UAE, on the other hand, seemed less engaged. I need to watch a few interviews because it all felt surreal.”
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Thomas, like Del Toro, lost the Giro in 2023 on the very last possible day.
Del Toro remained passive: “It’s his race to lose”
Undoubtedly, the young Mexican’s performance is highly commendable, especially considering his role within the team. “Don’t get me wrong: he’s 21 and finished second in his debut Grand Tour (Del Toro participated in the Vuelta a España last year, ed.). That’s a significant achievement. However, his approach was completely different. It felt like something changed overnight.”
At times, the unfolding drama at Finestre was difficult for Thomas to watch. “Del Toro shadowed Carapaz impressively, and when Yates attacked, he didn’t lead. Carapaz rode at the front, which I just couldn’t understand. Let Del Toro take charge; he’s in pink—this is his race to lose. Ultimately, Carapaz slowed down, and Del Toro didn’t even step up. They paused for 30 seconds, allowing Derek Gee to catch up. Then, Carapaz accelerated again. He made the right move, but Del Toro could keep up.”
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Thomas feels frustrated with Carapaz and Del Toro: “They were likely the strongest”
De Plus pointed out Del Toro’s lack of experience, suggesting that at his age, he might not know the best way to ride a Grand Tour. “You can see the contrast with Yates—an experienced cyclist who has completed 10 or 15 Grand Tours.” Nonetheless, Thomas firmly disagreed. “Do you need experience to realize that third place is slipping away? Even my five-year-old son would understand that.”
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Simon Yates clinched a spectacular Giro victory in the final mountain stage.
Thomas unimpressed with UAE: “Let’s talk about brainfarts…“
The Belgian from Visma | Lease a Bike earned much praise, but the former Tour champion struggles to understand the fluctuating views on van Aert. “I’m van Aert’s biggest supporter; I’ve defended him many times. But it frustrates me that people elevate him one week and criticize him the next. Can we maintain some perspective and acknowledge: well done for being at the front? It was clearly a smart tactic.”