In a thrilling three weeks of cycling action, the 2023 Giro d’Italia witnessed an impressive performance by Joao Almeida of UAE Team Emirates, who clinched a well-deserved podium finish in third place. Almeida, supported by his strong team, showcased his talent and determination throughout the race, leaving a lasting mark on the prestigious Italian Grand Tour.

 

UAE Team Emirates came into the Giro d’Italia with high ambitions, and their prowess was evident from the very beginning. The team’s sprinter, Pascal Ackermann, showcased his speed and power by sprinting to victory on stage 11 to Tortona.

 

Brandon McNulty, another key rider for the UAE squad, displayed his exceptional climbing abilities and race strategy to win on stage 15 to Bergamo. McNulty’s hard work and tactical brilliance paid off when he secured the stage victory, reinforcing the team’s dominance in different terrains and race scenarios.

 

However, it was Joao Almeida who emerged as the team’s standout performer and ultimately claimed a spot on the final podium along with a memorable stage win on Monte Bondone.

 

Almeida’s third-place finish was a testament to his exceptional skill and the unwavering support of his teammates. Throughout the race, UAE Team Emirates demonstrated their cohesive strength and ability to work coherently as a unit, providing Almeida with the necessary support and protection during crucial moments.

 

The overall title was won by Primoz Roglic (Jumbo Visma) with Almeida top of the young riders category and at 24 years old, keen for much more.

 

Almeida : “It feels pretty special to finish on the podium in this company. I hope to be back on the podium again in the future. I’m still growing as a rider and keen to see what’s coming in the next years. I had a really good team by my side and some days you could see it on the TV and even sometimes you don’t see it but they were always there for me and without them it would have been impossible, also for the hard work behind the scenes of all the staff. It’s a team effort and one I’m very proud of.”

 

Stage results

1.Mark Cavendish (Astana) 2:48:26

2.Alex Kirsch (Trek-Segafredo) s.t

2.Felipo Fiorelli (Green Project-Bardiani) s.t

 

Final GC

1.Primoz Roglic (Jumbo-Visma) 85:29:02

2.Geraint Thomas (Ineos-Grenadiers) +14’’

3.Joao Almeida (UAE Team Emirates) +1’15’’