Misfortune also hides in places that seem harmless. The ninth stage of the Giro, which ends this afternoon at the Blockhaus, was climbing the second climb of the day, the Pionero Sannitico, when there was a hitch in the peloton. Half a dozen runners have crashed, including Pello Bilbao, a key cyclist this day in which Mikel Landa aspires to everything in the final port. Bilbao, with a very bruised left side, remains in the race and in the leading group. He is ranked ninth in the overall standings.

He had, yes, to be treated by medical services. He had grazers on his left elbow and hip. The jersey had several tatters, through which he showed the station with which he communicates with his colleagues and directors. Another Bahrain cyclist, Buitrago, also fell in the same incident. The Colombian, despite visible signs of pain, rejoined the group.

Bahrain today has a great opportunity to place Mikel Landa among the best of the Giro. The man from Alava reaches one of the peaks, the Blockhaus, which in theory is better for him. To move the stage, or to control it, you need your team. And Pello Bilbao and Buitrago with those who best adapt to such a tour.