Robert Gesink (Blanco) abandoned the Giro d’Italia earlier today due to illness.

Gesink fell ill yesterday and performed below par at the individual mountain time trial. Following consultations with the medical staff of the Blanco team, the rider decided to quit the race prior to Friday’s stage (which was eventually cancelled due to adverse weather conditions).

Gesink was placed 12th in the Giro’s general classification, trailing Vincenzo Nibali (Astana) by more than ten minutes. Following Gesink’s withdrawal, 22-year-old Wilco Kelderman is the new designated leader of the Blanco team.