A podium finish in Rome to conclude the Giro on a high note
# Thrilling Finale for Groupama-FDJ United at Giro d’Italia in Rome
The 109th edition of the Giro d’Italia reached a dramatic conclusion on Sunday in the streets of Rome, where Paul Penhoët secured a commendable third place in the final bunch sprint. The Groupama-FDJ United Cycling Team wrapped up this year’s first Grand Tour with notable achievements, including two podium finishes and two additional top-10 results, amidst a race filled with challenge and determination from all eight riders who completed the demanding “Corsa Rosa.”
Navigating the final stretch into Rome was no easy feat, with two major mountain stages preceding the city finale on Friday and Saturday. Stage 19, featuring the rugged Passo Giau, set the stage for intense competition among the general classification contenders. “On mountain stages, our best option was to make the breakaway and hope it would be the right one,” stated Frédéric Guesdon, the team’s director. “Unfortunately, it didn’t work out. Still, we have no regrets because we knew the breakaway was our only realistic chance of a major result.” Despite valiant efforts from Rémi, Josh, and Rémy, the plans fell short as key GC riders launched attacks early in the climbs, culminating in a victory for Sepp Kuss in Alleghe.
The following day, Axel Huens made a significant effort in the breakaway during the stage that included two ascents of Piancavallo. Despite his strong performance, the stage victory eventually went to pink jersey holder Jonas Vingegaard. “Axel went very far and rode a great race, but unfortunately it didn’t pay off,” Frédéric reflected.
As the riders transitioned from northern Italy to Rome, the anticipation built for one last chance to shine. The stage was fast and frantic, with sprinters eager to seize victory after a disappointing finish in Milan. Groupama-FDJ United took decisive action by sending Rémy Rochas and Rémi Cavagna ahead to help Penhoët. “Attacking was partly pleasure, but partly strategic as we had to find the best way to help Paul,” said William Green, emphasizing their team’s approach to contesting the race.
The final lap saw fierce racing as Filippo Ganna launched an attack that compelled sprint teams to respond. By the time the race reached the last kilometer, Penhoët was positioned well, thanks to the guidance of Axel Huens, who advised him to stay calm despite facing mechanical troubles. “I entered the last kilometre in seventh or eighth position, and my goal was to launch my sprint,” Penhoët recounted. With 250 meters remaining, he seized a gap and surged into the lead, ultimately securing third place behind Jonathan Milan and Giovanni Lonardi. “Maybe I could have finished second if I’d waited a little longer, but what mattered to me was launching my sprint… it’s a small step forward,” Penhoët noted, reflecting on his success.
Frédéric Guesdon encapsulated the team’s spirit, saying, “We fought until the end.” After finishing eleventh in Sofia and ninth in Milan, Penhoët finally achieved the noteworthy result he had been striving for throughout the three-week race. William explained, “The Giro route was quite unique… aside from that, we tried to make the most of every other chance.” The team’s overall tally included two podium finishes and multiple top-10 results, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout varied conditions.
All eight Groupama-FDJ United riders reached the finish line in Rome, marking a successful end to their three-week journey. Frédéric emphasized the development of the younger riders, noting that this was either their first or second Grand Tour experience. “Josh emerged as one of the revelations of the race… they demonstrated that during the final days of racing,” concluded William.
The 2023 Giro d’Italia proved to be a journey of growth and opportunity for Groupama-FDJ United, culminating with a podium finish that leave fans looking forward to their next engagements.
