Gigante Shines with Podium Finish and Climbers’ Title at Giro d’Italia
Australian cyclist Sarah Gigante has delivered a remarkable performance at her debut Giro d’Italia, claiming third place overall and winning the prestigious Queen of the Mountains jersey. The 24-year-old climbed her way to the podium, achieving two mountain stage wins in just four days and securing her position among Australia’s cycling greats.
Her performance came after a long recovery from iliac artery endofibrosis surgery, making this comeback all the more inspiring. “I can’t believe how well this week went,” said Gigante. “I never expected this. My main concern was just being able to compete again without pain.”
Top Finish and Jersey Glory After Tough Recovery Journey
On the final day of racing, Gigante delivered again. She attacked early on the hilly stage to secure enough points to overtake Spain’s Usoa Ostolaza and seal the blue jersey as the top climber. Her strength in the high mountains proved decisive.
She finished behind Italian champion Elisa Longo Borghini, who defended her overall lead to win the Giro by 18 seconds. Liane Lippert won the last stage, outsprinting Anna van der Breggen on the Imola racetrack after a late breakaway.
Gigante couldn’t reduce the 71-second gap to the lead but maintained her position on the general classification podium. With her third-place finish, she joins a select group of Australians—Neve Bradbury, Amanda Spratt, Kathryn Watt, and Elisabeth Hepple—who’ve also reached Giro podiums.
A Rising Star Among Australia’s Cycling Legends
Gigante’s strength and resilience echo throughout her Giro campaign. The Queen of the Mountains win, coupled with consistent performances in key stages, showcased her potential to contend in future tours. Her performance mirrors the momentum of a new generation of Australian cyclists.
As Lorena Wiebes sealed her sprint classification, and Longo Borghini praised her team’s efforts saying, “The last eight days were full gas: we had a common goal, and we achieved it,” Gigante stood tall with pride and quiet disbelief.
Her return to top-level racing isn’t just a personal victory—it’s a bold message about endurance, determination, and what’s possible with belief and patience.
