Strong performance in the final stage of the Coppi e Bartali takes Schiffer to fifth place in the general classification
# Schiffer Shines with Strong Climb, Finishes Fifth in Coppi e Bartali General Classification
The final stage of the Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali proved to be a true test of endurance as riders tackled the challenging double ascent of Monte Stella. A five-rider breakaway took an early lead, stretching their advantage to five minutes before the pack ramped up the pace, ultimately bringing the day’s adventure to a close.
Team Visma | Lease a Bike’s Anton Schiffer found himself well-positioned at the base of the final climb, thanks to the solid support of his teammates, Sven Mernik, Patryk Goszczurny, and Elliot Rowe. As the stage unfolded, Schiffer showcased his climbing prowess despite facing formidable competition from Mauro Schmid, Alan Hatherly, and Axel Laurance, who ultimately outperformed him.
Finishing the stage in ninth, Schiffer’s performance was enough to catapult him into fifth place in the overall standings. “Anton put in a superb performance today. He rode a strong climb and rewarded himself with a fine top-five finish in the overall standings,” praised sports director Robert Wagner. He also acknowledged the strength of the day’s leading riders, stating, “We have to admit that Schmid, Hatherly and Laurance were just that bit stronger today, but nevertheless we can be proud of this result.”
Reflecting on the team’s overall performance over the five-day event, Wagner expressed optimism. “The way those four riders worked together is something to be proud of,” he noted, highlighting the collaborative effort put forth by the team. “Sven and Patryk did their job for Elliot and Anton today. Elliot reached his limit today, but that’s not a problem. For him, and for the other lads too, this was above all a journey of discovery. This week they’ve been able to experience what it’s like to ride at a higher level. All in all, we can head home with a positive feeling.”
**Final Stage Results:**
1. Mauro Schmid (Team Jayco AlUla) – 04:01:52
2. Axel Laurance (INEOS Grenadiers) – +00:00:00
3. Alan Hatherly (Team Jayco AlUla) – +00:00:03
9. Anton Schiffer (Team Visma | Lease a Bike) – +00:00:22
**General Classification Final Rankings:**
1. Mauro Schmid (Team Jayco AlUla) – 19:01:50
2. Axel Laurance (INEOS Grenadiers) – +00:00:02
3. Alan Hatherly (Team Jayco AlUla) – +00:00:27
5. Anton Schiffer (Team Visma | Lease a Bike) – +00:00:50
With this solid performance, Schiffer has not only secured a respectable finish but also laid the groundwork for future successes in his cycling career.
