Michele Scarponi (Lampre-Merida) completed an energy-sapping individual time trial today to finish 10th on the day and move into top 5 on GC, 1' 24" down on new leader, Vincenzo Nibali (Astana).

Having just crossed the finish line at Saltara, a fatigued Scarponi commented on his performance in his race against the clock.

"I pushed hard and it was difficult to stay focused for [nearly] an hour and twenty minutes,” Scarponi told Tuttobiciweb.it. “In the flat places best suited to specialists, I certainly lost valuable seconds, but overall I think I defended well. I'm really exhausted. I hope I never again have to engage in a battle against the clock for so long in my life. Now I just want to take a shower and rest."