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Mexican rider distances GC rivals as race nears the Adriatic Sea
News | Team -13th March 2026
Isaac Del Toro delivered another attacking performance today at Tirreno-Adriatico, finishing second on Stage 5 and reclaiming the overall race lead with two stages remaining. The result sees the UAE Team Emirates-XRG telent return to the blue leader’s jersey after an aggressive day of racing across the demanding hills of the Marche region.
The 184km stage from Marotta-Mondolfo to Mombaroccio proved one of the toughest days of the race so far, featuring almost 4,000 metres of climbing and a relentless sequence of steep hills that split the peloton repeatedly. An early breakaway of several riders went clear, with Denmark’s Michael Valgren (EF Education Easypost) ultimately attacking from the escape to take the stage victory.
Behind the breakaway, the general classification battle unfolded on the final climb. Del Toro launched a strong acceleration on the steep slopes, distancing race leader Giulio Pellizzari (Red Bull Bora hansgrohe) and the other contenders before powering to the finish line in second place. The move allowed the Mexican rider to gain crucial seconds and retake the overall lead of the race, opening a small gap ahead of his rivals in the standings.
The result continues a superb run of form for the 22-year-old, who has lit up the race heading into the closing weekend.
Isaac Del Toro: ‘It’s nice to be back in the leaders jersey. I tried to put pressure on the last climb and was able to put some distance between myself and the rivals. It was a really hard stage with climbs all day and the pace was very high. The team worked incredibly well to keep the race under control and put me in position for the final climb. I tried to attack at the right moment and I’m happy it allowed me to take the jersey again. There are still two difficult stages to go, so we will stay focused and keep fighting.’
Stage 5 results
1.Michael Valgren (EF Education Easypost) 4:43:33
2.Isaac Del Toro (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) +11′
3.Matteo Jorgenson (Visma Lease a Bike) s.t
General Classification after stage 5
1.Isaac Del Toro (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) 20:10:40
2.Giulio Pellizzari (Red Bull Bora hansgrohe)
3.Matteo Jorgenson (Team Visma Lease a Bike)
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