Stage 20: May 29 2010 - Bormio - Passa del Tonale 178 km
Map and profile
It's 50 years since Imerio Massignan first led the Giro over the immense Gavia and, weather permitting, this classic ascent features as part of the race's most intimidating mountain test. Three major ascents contribute to what is by far the greatest tally of climbing – a staggering 6,320m for the day.
There's a brief passage into Switzerland before the epic 25km rise to 2,618m and the Cima Coppi prize awarded to the first rider over the race's highest summit at the Passo di Gavia. Still to come is the final and surely race-deciding climb on the Passo Tonale.
Procycling's favourite to win:
Winner of two stages last year and back for overall victory this time, Cervélo's Carlos Sastre will relish today's challenge. The dogged Spaniard will be difficult to chase down if he gets a significant advantage on any of the key mountain stages.
Scarponi says:
Stage Details
Distance: 178km
Vertical climb: 6,320m
Highest point: 2,618m
Terrain: High mountain
Category: Road Stage
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Latest on Cyclingnews
-
As the 4th of July bike sales and early Amazon Prime deals combine, discounts on Silca, Castelli, Garmin, and others mean up to 70% off bike gear this weekend
Prime Day, just days away, combined with the 4th of July bike sales here already, is the perfect cocktail for discounts -
'I can promise a battle' – Elisa Longo Borghini builds momentum toward title defence at Giro d’Italia Women
Chasing back-to-back victories in a season where she has been a 'lot of princesses, but never a queen' -
Aero chain catchers and taped up seatposts: Jonas Vingegaard's 'prototype' aero bike leaves no stone unturned at the Tour de France
Don't be fooled by the prototype sticker, this is ready to roll -
It's Round Five in the epic Vingegaard-Pogačar duel - Philippa York analysis
Philippa York takes a close look at form, tactics and team strengths ahead of the major battle at the 2025 Tour de France