The Giro d’Italia is renowned for its dramatic mountain stages, and this year, all eyes are on Stage 20—a day that may decide the 2025 champion. As the peloton faces one last punishing Alpine test before the ceremonial ride into Rome, the tension is palpable. With the general classification (GC) still wide open and only seconds separating the top contenders, Stage 20 promises fireworks, heartbreak, and heroics.
Stage 20: The Ultimate Test in the Giro d’Italia
Stage 20 of the Giro d’Italia may use every ounce of strength, strategy, and courage the riders have left. The 205-kilometer route from Verrès to Sestrière is not just long; it’s brutal, featuring over 4,500 meters of climbing and the infamous Colle delle Finestre—one of the most feared ascents in professional cycling. This climb, nearly 19 kilometers at an average gradient of 9.2% and reaching pitches of 14%, is a true test of endurance and skill. The second half of the Finestre is gravel, adding a layer of unpredictability and drama to an already epic day.
After a relatively gentle first 100 kilometers, the real action begins. Riders will tackle the Colle del Lys, a 13.7-kilometer climb with steep ramps, before descending into the valley and bracing for the Finestre. The summit of the Finestre, the Cima Coppi (the highest point of the Giro), comes less than 30 kilometers from the finish. A technical descent leads to the final climb to Sestrière, a steady ascent that will crown the day’s victor and likely the overall winner of the Giro d’Italia.
The Battle for the Maglia Rosa: Del Toro vs. Carapaz
This year’s Giro d’Italia may use Stage 20 as its defining moment. Isaac del Toro leads Richard Carapaz by just 43 seconds as the riders line up for this decisive stage. Del Toro, who has worn the pink jersey since the end of the first week, faces his toughest challenge yet. Carapaz, the 2019 Giro champion, has chipped away at Del Toro’s lead with relentless aggression, but he needs to make his move today if he hopes to reclaim the top spot.
Simon Yates, sitting third in the GC just 1:21 behind Del Toro, is also within striking distance. The gaps are razor-thin, and the mighty Finestre has shattered dreams before—most notably Yates’ own in 2018. With only the ceremonial Stage 21 remaining, everything hinges on who can conquer the mountains and their rivals today.
Key Stage 20 Features and What to Watch
- Distance: 205 kilometers (approx. 127.3 miles)
- Climbs:
- Colle del Lys: 13.7 km, average 4.3%, max 12%
- Colle delle Finestre: 18.6 km, average 9.2%, max 14%, gravel in the upper half
- Sestrière: Long, steady ascent to the finish, average 5%
- Total Elevation Gain: Over 4,500 meters
- Cima Coppi: The highest point of the race at the summit of the Finestre
Riders to Watch
- Isaac del Toro: Current maglia rosa, defending a slim lead
- Richard Carapaz: Aggressive challenger, needs to attack
- Simon Yates: Climbing specialist, within striking distance
- Derek Gee and Damiano Caruso: Both in the top five, potential for podium shake-up
Live Action and Early Drama
As the riders attacked the slopes of the Finestre, Simon Yates launched a bold move, opening up a gap of nearly two minutes over Del Toro and Carapaz. With 20 kilometers to go, Yates was the virtual leader on the road, but the relentless gradients and tactical battles behind made every second count. Carapaz, pushing to his limits, tried to drop Del Toro, but the young leader held firm. The crowds on the mountain roared as the drama unfolded, every pedal stroke potentially rewriting the Giro d’Italia’s history.
The stage may use every trick in the book—team tactics, solo attacks, and desperate chases. With the podium separated by less than a minute, even a small mistake or a moment of brilliance could tip the balance. The gravel of the Finestre, the technical descents, and the final climb to Sestrière all offer opportunities for glory or disaster.
Why Stage 20 May Use the Giro d’Italia’s Legacy
Stage 20 of the Giro d’Italia is not just another mountain stage—it’s a crucible where legends are forged. The combination of iconic climbs, high stakes, and exhausted riders creates an atmosphere unlike any other in cycling. The Giro d’Italia may use this stage to crown a new champion, reward daring attacks, or deliver a heartbreak for those who falter. Fans around the world are glued to their screens, knowing that history is being written in real time.
Key Takeaways from Stage 20
- The GC battle is closer than ever, with Del Toro, Carapaz, and Yates all in contention.
- The Colle delle Finestre is the ultimate decider, with its steep, gravelly slopes.
- Stage 20 may use every ounce of drama and unpredictability that makes the Giro d’Italia legendary.
As the riders crest the final climbs and sprint for the line in Sestrière, only the strongest will survive. The Giro d’Italia may use Stage 20 as the stage where dreams come true—or are dashed on the unforgiving Alpine roads.
Don’t miss the conclusion of this epic battle. Tune in for the final showdown and witness cycling history unfold.
Catch the Giro d’Italia’s dramatic finale live—follow every attack, every climb, and every second as the maglia rosa is decided on the legendary roads to Sestrière.