Roglič Bites the Dust, Van Aert Wins, Del Toro Takes Giro Lead On
It was a stage that had everything: crashes, comebacks, and shifting leadership. In what might be remembered as one of the most dramatic days of this year’s Giro d’Italia, Primož Roglič’s hopes took a serious blow with a late crash, Wout van Aert powered to an emotional victory, and Mexican sensation Isaac del Toro surged into the overall lead. Three riders, three stories—each reshaping the race narrative in very different ways.
Roglič’s Painful Setback
Primož Roglič came into the Giro with ambitions of reclaiming the pink jersey and making a definitive statement after a mixed start to his 2025 season. But on the winding descent just 12 kilometers from the finish line of Stage 12, disaster struck. Roglič, positioned near the front and looking comfortable, misjudged a wet corner and went down hard, sliding into the barriers.
Although he was quick to remount and finish the stage, the damage was done. He lost over a minute to his main rivals and was visibly shaken as he crossed the line. Medical staff later confirmed superficial injuries—no fractures—but concerns remain over how the crash might affect his performance in the high mountains still to come.
“He’s tough, and he’ll fight back,” said his DS from Bora-Hansgrohe. “But mentally, this is a blow. We were riding well as a team, and to see him hit the deck like that so close to the end—it hurts.”
For Roglič, the crash reopens old wounds. He’s had his share of bad luck in Grand Tours, and while he’s also known for his resilience, the clock is now ticking.
Van Aert’s Emotional Win
While the chaos behind unfolded, Wout van Aert seized his opportunity. Part of a select group that surged clear in the final 30 kilometers, van Aert launched a solo attack with just under 10km to go and held off a chasing trio to take his first stage win of the 2025 Giro.
The win was more than just a tactical masterclass—it was a personal triumph. After a tough spring campaign, marked by crashes, recovery, and pressure to deliver, van Aert had returned to his best. He crossed the line with a shout of relief and emotion, punching the air in celebration.
“This means a lot,” van Aert said post-stage. “I’ve had to be patient, to trust the process. Today everything finally came together.”
His teammates were equally jubilant. “We’ve seen how hard he’s worked. He never gave up,” said Christophe Laporte. “Wout rides with his heart. Today he got the reward.”
Van Aert’s win doesn’t affect the GC standings, but it sends a message: he’s back, and he’s dangerous.
Del Toro Steps Up
The biggest shift on the leaderboard came thanks to UAE Team Emirates’ rising star, Isaac del Toro. The 20-year-old Mexican, riding his debut Grand Tour, has impressed with his consistency and calm. Today, he moved into the maglia rosa, taking over the lead from Ineos Grenadiers’ Geraint Thomas, who faltered slightly on the final climb.
Del Toro didn’t win the stage, but his timing, positioning, and decision-making throughout the day were flawless. When the race split and GC favorites hesitated, he was quick to follow van Aert’s move, minimizing losses and gaining crucial seconds on most of his rivals. He now holds a slender 12-second lead overall, but his composure suggests he’s not done yet.
“Taking the jersey is a dream, but it’s just one step,” Del Toro said afterward. “There’s a long way to go, and I’m here to learn, to suffer, and to give my best.”
The cycling world is quickly taking notice. The Giro has a history of launching young careers—Del Toro may be the latest breakout star.
What It Means for the Race
With Roglič losing time, Thomas showing signs of fatigue, and Del Toro stepping into the limelight, the race has dramatically opened up. João Almeida and Ben O’Connor both remain within striking distance, and the Alps loom large in the final week.
Van Aert’s victory provides a psychological boost to Team Visma | Lease a Bike, who had been relatively quiet so far. Though he’s not in contention for the GC, his presence in breakaways could become a strategic weapon for the team.
And while Roglič will have to reassess his ambitions, writing him off would be premature. He’s come back from worse.
Final Thoughts
In a race known for unpredictability, Stage 12 delivered a dose of everything that makes the Giro d’Italia great. A crash that shook the GC, a crowd-pleasing win for one of cycling’s most beloved riders, and the emergence of a fearless young talent—cycling, in all its drama, was on full display.
As the peloton rides on toward the mountains, one thing is clear: the Giro is far from over.
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