Stage 8 of the 2025 Giro d’Italia, held on Saturday, May 17, spanned 197 km from Giulianova to Castelraimondo. This stage featured a challenging route with multiple climbs, including the Montelago and the steep Muro di Gagliole, testing the riders' endurance and strategy.

Stage 8 Highlights

• Luke Plapp's Solo Victory: Australian rider Luke Plapp (Team Jayco AlUla) launched a decisive attack on the Montelago climb, approximately 45 km from the finish. Maintaining his lead, Plapp secured his first Grand Tour stage win, finishing 38 seconds ahead of his closest competitors. 

• Diego Ulissi Takes the Maglia Rosa: Italian veteran Diego Ulissi (XDS Astana Team) finished third on the stage. His performance, combined with time bonuses, allowed him to overtake Primož Roglič in the General Classification, becoming the first Italian to wear the pink jersey since 2021. 

Stage 8 Top 5 Results

1. Luke Plapp (Jayco AlUla) – 4h 44' 20"

2. Wilco Kelderman (Team Visma | Lease a Bike) – +38"

3. Diego Ulissi (XDS Astana Team) – same time

4. Igor Arrieta (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) – same time

5. Antonio Tiberi (Bahrain Victorious) – same time

General Classification After Stage 8

1. Diego Ulissi (XDS Astana Team) – 29h 21' 23"

2. Lorenzo Fortunato (XDS Astana Team) – +12"

3. Primož Roglič (Red Bull–BORA–Hansgrohe) – +17"

4. Juan Ayuso (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) – +20"

5. Isaac Del Toro (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) – +26"

6. Antonio Tiberi (Bahrain Victorious) – +44"

7. Max Poole (Team Picnic PostNL) – +47"

8. Michael Storer (Tudor Pro Cycling Team) – +50"

9. Brandon McNulty (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) – +51"

10. Mathias Vacek (Lidl–Trek) – +54"

Key Takeaways

• Luke Plapp's Performance: Plapp's strategic attack and endurance on the climbs showcased his potential as a formidable contender in mountainous stages.

• Ulissi's Leadership: Ulissi's ascent to the top of the GC highlights the depth of experience and tactical acumen within the XDS Astana Team.

• Roglič's Position: Despite losing the pink jersey, Roglič remains within striking distance, setting the stage for potential shifts in the upcoming stages.