Damiano Cunego took third place in in the Giro dell’Appennino but was left with some regret. He launched a great action on the climb of the Bocchetta and dropped everyone else. Without collaboration from Edoardo Zardini, he was caught by the chasers and had to settle for third.

Damiano Cunego showed great condition and motivation but came up short due to tactics. The Nippo-Vini Fantini leaded didn't find collaboration and six other riders came back to him in the last 3 km. With a strong motivation after this long action Damiano Cunego finished third.

"I was pleased to meet so many fans on the course. They are very important for me and I was pleased to hear my name down the road many times. It's really beautiful," he told Procycling.net. "I liked the Passo della Borchetta, the only bright spot of the day. The finale panned out in a certain way and after several riders got back, I realized that it would be impossible. They tried to avoid a sprint with me and I chased down several attacks but when it is too much, it is too much and in the end, unfortunately, I was not able to win the race."

Despite the lack of success, Cunego is confident ahead of the Giro

"I worked for that goal and am ready but for two years I have not had an impact on grand tours or major races so it is uselusse to pretend anything. However, I continue to work well and I can count on the support of my wonderful family because Damiano Cunego is not just a rider, but also a father, with children growing up. I have to take care of their needs and there it is not only about cycling."

Sports director Stefano Giuliani  gave this analysis to the race. “There is a little bit of regret after a day dominated by the Nippo Vini Fantini team. The team chased down a long escape, then Damiano made a great action on the Bocchetta climb. He made the difference, no one was able to stay with him so it's a pity not to have won this race, but Damiano Cunego has found the condition, motivation and trust in his talent. He only miss some luck, but he will also find that"

Today the Tour of Turkey also started with a bunch sprint. For the Italian team, Nicolas Marini finished 17th.