Steven Kruijswijk jumped from seventh to third overall in the eighth stage of the Giro d’Italia today to Arezzo. Team LottoNL-Jumbo’s classification leader finished in front of the first group with the biggest favourites. Ahead, Gianluca Brambilla (Etixx - Quick Step) soloed to the stage victory and grabbed the pink jersey.

“The team continued what they were already doing this whole race,” Sports Director Jan Boven said. “Everyone deserves a big compliment. The men were very focussed since the first day. It relaxes Steven. Everything we’re planning is working and Steven is always in the right position.”

Aggressive

On Saturday, the team had to position Kruijswijk for the foot of the Alpe di Poti. Its gravel roads to the top left only 20 kilometres to the finish. “Steven was riding aggressively, especially in the beginning of the climb,” Boven continued. “We wanted to watch Nibali and Valverde, and if possible, Steven had to go along with them. We knew that this climb suited Steven and we felt confident about the fact when we did a recon. Only seven riders survived on the steepest part, and those are the main favourites for the general classification.”

Confident

“I was led out like a sprinter to the foot of the climb,” Kruijswijk added. “Until that moment, I barely had to do anything and that feels great. I want to be at my very best on the long climbs during the final week of this Giro, so it feels great to be able to follow Nibali and Valverde also on a steep and short climb like today’s.

“My third place in the general classification doesn’t give me extra pressure. Last year, I was 85th at this moment and that was a lot more stressful. I’m already in good position and I’m feeling confident. I’m approaching tomorrow’s time trial as a chance to win more time on my competitors, as well.”

Kruijswijk reconnoitred the 40.5-kilometre time trial, as well. “We’re excited for it in a good way,” Boven said. “We did a recon, made some notes and images. We have to use them tomorrow. It’s going to be an hour of suffering for Steven.”