To the bewilderment of spectators and TV pundits alike, Carlos Alberto Betancur (AG2R) arrived at the finish line in jubilant mood, evidently believing he had won Sunday's stage at the Giro d'Italia.

"I sprinted in order to win the stage,” the Colombian explained to Rai Sport after the conclusion of the stage. “I do not ride wearing a radio and as the end approached, I was convinced that I had reeled them all back in. I am very happy because a second place in a stage of the Giro d’Italia for me is very important. I saw Hesjedal in crisis and Wiggins in trouble and I am convinced there is still a chance to do something good. I have a six minutes time deficit but there is still a long way and I can still grow," said the Colombian.

As it was, Betancur had to settle for 2nd on the day, 44 seconds down on Belkov (Katusha).