ANOTHER DAY TO REMEMBER AT THE GIRO D’ITALIA

Alec Segaert won stage 12 on his Oltre RC on Thursday as Afonso Eulálio extended his lead at the top of the overall standings.

Treviglio (Italy), Friday 22nd May: The 2026 Giro d’Italia is the gift that keeps on giving for Bianchi and Team Bahrain Victorious, with Alec Segaert powering to an incredible solo victory on Thursday’s 12th stage, and Afonso Eulálio also extending his overall lead.

Team Bahrain Victorious had worked hard keep the breakaway in check on the 175km transfer from Imperia to Novi Ligure, and once that had been reeled back in the closing stages, Segaert picked the perfect moment to launch a stinging attack of his own, powering up the road on his Oltre RC and evading the marauding peloton for 3.5km to wrap up his win by three clear seconds.

That incredible success was compounded by Eulálio safely crossing the line in the midst of the peloton. The Portuguese rider had seen his advantage grow after scooping up six bonus seconds earlier in the stage, meaning he remained in control of both the pink and white jerseys.

Eulálio went into Friday’s stage holding a 33-second lead over Jonas Vingegaard in the General Classification, and a 3min 42sec advantage over Giulio Pellizzari in the Young Rider Classification.

Bianchi CEO Alberto Cavaggioni said: “This was another landmark achievement in the partnership between Bianchi and Team Bahrain Victorious. The grit, determination and will to win which Alec demonstrated yesterday completely aligns with everything Bianchi stands for, and we could not be prouder of that hard-fought victory.

“Of course, the team deserve huge praise for putting Alec in the position to execute their plan, whilst also battling to extend Afonso’s GC lead earlier in the stage. We will remember that stage, and this race for a long time, and it’s marking a thrilling new chapter in Bianchi’s rich racing history.”