Stage 11 Preview: Ambush Tactics on the Slopes of Bismantova

The Tuscan time trial has shaken up the general classification once again. Now, under the shadow of the imposing Pietra di Bismantova, the spectacle is guaranteed. The only question is whether it will be the breakaway artists or the GC contenders battling for the win. The 186 km route from Viareggio to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, Stage 11 of the 2025 Giro d’Italia, clearly favors those willing to launch a long-range move. But with the climb to Alpe San Pellegrino and, above all, the final ascent to the Pietra di Bismantova, we might also see a reaction from some of the overall hopefuls – especially those left disappointed by the time trial – eager to shake things up.

Up and Down the Emilian Apennines

With the time trial behind them, the climbers will have much more room to express themselves today. The first major challenge arrives just after the 80 km mark with the brutally tough ascent of Alpe San Pellegrino (cat. 1 – 14.2 km at 8.7%), which is crested 92 km from the finish. A long descent leads down to Ponte Dolo, where the road kicks up again toward Toano (cat. 2 – 11.1 km at 4.9%), summited with 39 km to go. Then comes the key moment: the climb to the Pietra di Bismantova (cat. 2 – 5.8 km at 5.8%), which tops out just 5 km from the line.
The stage profile clearly favors those willing to go on the offensive early, with a breakaway very much in play. But if any GC contenders are looking to stir things up – especially with strong team support – they’ll find terrain ripe for bold moves and creative tactics.

Breakaway or GC men?

It feels like a long-range move could well be the key to taking the stage today. The KOM at Alpe di San Pellegrino will no doubt tempt those targeting the Maglia Azzurra, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see Lorenzo Fortunato (XDS–Astana) active from the early kilometers, possibly joined by other pure climbers already out of the GC picture.

It will also be interesting to see if anyone tries to test the depth of UAE Team Emirates–XRG, a squad that looks poised to dominate on the climbs. The GC contenders will need to stay sharp, and those unhappy with their current standing may look to shake things up – no need to wait for the third week to get creative.

Preview stage 11: Details

Viareggio – Castelnovo ne’ Monti
Distance: 186 km
Elevation Gain: 3,850 meters
Start Time: 12:05 p.m.
KM 0 (Official Start): 12:20 p.m.
LIVE Coverage Begins: 10:30 a.m.
Estimated Finish: Around 5:15 p.m.