Egan Bernal (Ineos Grenadiers, pink jersey and winner of the 16th stage of the Giro on Monday): “It’s a great victory. I wanted to do something special, I wanted to win with this pink jersey and show it off. It’s not everyday that this happens on a grand tour. It was a tough stage but, when the race is tough because of the weather, you have to be strong in your head, have a winning mind.
– –
The shortening of the stage? I don’t know what was better for us. Cold or not, long or short stage, we were ready anyway for any hypothesis. In the end, the organizers decide. It’s up to us to be ready. I’m glad it went well. I think I’m in a great position now. If I’m going to have a slightly difficult day, which can happen to any runner, I can handle the situation. “
– –
Simon Yates (BikeExchange, 11th in the stage and 5th overall): “I didn’t get what I was looking for, but I did my best. It was a difficult stage. Victory is a bit far away now, but the podium is still within reach. So we have to keep our heads up. “
– –
Remco Evenepoel (Deceuninck – Quick-Step, more than 24 minutes from the winner of the 16th stage, 19th overall): “I feel less and less well every day. My body is not ready. I only trained for two months (after nine months off following a fall). I don’t think someone who trains for two months can expect to be on top for three weeks. My goal is to finish the Giro well. As long as I can keep going, I won’t give up. I will try to take a breakaway, it will depend on my condition. “
– – .
