Domenico Pozzovivo’s Determination Takes Him to the Podium at Coppi e Bartali
The fairytale journey of Domenico Pozzovivo continued with a remarkable second-place finish in the third stage of the Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali. “I surprised myself,” he said. “Who would have thought that a podium would be reached so soon?”
Pozzovivo’s professionalism, drive, and experience played a significant role in his achievement. However, there was another surprising factor at play – his anger. “Yeah, I was furious!” he said. “I used that to drive me.”
At the beginning of the race, a crash split the peloton, leaving Pozzovivo and others behind. Expressing his frustration, he commented, “It was completely inappropriate. A few years ago, it wouldn’t be possible, but now the ethics seem different these days in the peloton.”
Despite the setback, Pozzovivo’s Israel—Premier Tech teammates rallied and worked hard to chase down the breakaway riders. After three hours, it was his turn to make a move, and he capitalized on the opportunity. “I sensed that everyone was on their limit, so I took off,” he said.
Only two riders from EF Education — EasyPost were able to follow Pozzovivo, and together they maintained their lead for the remaining 22 kilometers. In the end, Pozzovivo was narrowly beaten by Ben Healy and settled for second place. “It’s the first time I sprinted in a velodrome,” he said with a smile.
Although pleased with his performance, Pozzovivo remains ambitious. “It turns out that my mind is even stronger than my body, and I believe I am not done here.”
Looking ahead, Pozzovivo currently sits in sixth place on the general classification. With one more hilly stage and an 18.6-kilometer time trial to come, the final standings will soon be determined.
