Hoole Victorious in Challenging Pisa Time Trial

PISA: Daan Hoole showcased an impressive performance, securing victory in the 28.6km individual time trial held in Pisa on Tuesday, despite the presence of adverse wet conditions.

The towering Dutch cyclist completed the course in an impressive 23 minutes and 27 seconds, achieving his second significant career win while also marking the fourth stage victory for his Lidl-Trek team.

Hoole’s triumph is particularly noteworthy considering the inclement weather in Tuscany, which transformed the time trial into an exceptionally demanding race.

As the main contenders navigated the rain-soaked route, Hoole displayed composure and strength, crossing the finish line with a considerable lead over his competitors.

“I’m incredibly happy, and deeply grateful to many. I simply can’t believe it,” Hoole expressed after achieving his second major career victory.

Meanwhile, 21-year-old Mexican cyclist Juan Sebastián Molano Del Toro from Team UAE maintained his overall lead, which he initially seized during the stage nine white gravel test.

However, Del Toro conceded 48 seconds to his team leader, Spain’s Juan Ayuso, who now holds second position overall, trailing by 25 seconds.

Italian cyclist Antonio Tiberi of Bahrain is currently in third, trailing by 1 minute and 1 second, while Simon Yates of Visma has advanced to fourth place, 1 minute and 3 seconds behind. Primož Roglič is in fifth position, 1 minute and 18 seconds behind.

Roglič, who lost 1 minute and 15 seconds on Sunday and experienced a fall during his practice ride on Tuesday, faced challenges in Pisa, resulting in a setback in the general classification.

Darren Rafferty concluded the stage in 155th place and currently holds the 88th position overall.