Van Aert Wins Giro d’Italia Stage Nine as Del Toro Moves into Overall Lead
Wout van Aert powered to a dramatic victory on stage nine of the 2025 Giro d’Italia, showcasing his trademark mix of power and tactical brilliance to outlast his rivals on a challenging route through the Apennine mountains. While the Belgian’s stage win grabbed headlines, it was Mexican rider Isaac Del Toro who emerged as the new overall leader, taking the coveted maglia rosa after a day of high drama in the general classification battle.
The 214-kilometer stage from Avezzano to Campitello Matese featured two major climbs and a summit finish that promised fireworks—and it delivered. Riders faced the brutal ascent of the Macerone climb midway through the stage before the decisive final 13-kilometer climb to Campitello Matese, with gradients that touched double digits in places.
Van Aert, riding for Team Visma | Lease a Bike, had yet to win a stage at this year’s Giro, and there had been speculation about his form following a difficult spring campaign marred by crashes and inconsistent results. However, on this mountain stage—seemingly unfavorable terrain for a rider of his profile—he silenced doubters with a performance that underlined his resilience and elite class.
The day’s breakaway was formed early, with 11 riders pushing clear, including strong climbers
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