Belgian rider Philippe Gilbert of the BMC team won his second stage on the Giro d'Italia this year as he triumphed in Thursday's 18th stage after a late breakaway.
Spaniard Alberto Contador of Tinkoff retains the leader's pink jersey three days from the race finish in Milan.
Gilbert, the 2012 world champion came home alone 47secs ahead of Italian Francesco Bongiorno, after a small group marshalled by the Belgian and Frenchman Sylvain Chavanel set up the break for home.
"For this Giro, I came to win a stage and try to wear the pink jersey. The first objective has been attained and a second victory is fantastic especially as it came in such a hard stage," said Gilbert.
"I took some risks but it paid off in the end."
The 32-year-old adds his second stage win on this year's Giro after winning last week at Monte Berico for his third career triumph in the race.
Contador also had a successful day when he attacked on the final difficult climb at Monte Ologno 45km from the finish.
Second-placed Mikel Landa of Spain lost valuable time and also suffered a puncture which did little to help his cause.
Contador protected his advantage with the help of Canadian former winner Ryder Hesjedal and teammate Davide Villella as he extended his overall lead over Landa to 5min 15secs.
"I've been working to win this race for four months and every day I'm getting closer," Contador said.
Gilbert, meanwhile made his move on the final descent following the category one climb and went clear at the front with 19km to run.
Friday's 19th stage will see a gruelling 236km slog from Gravellona Toce and features three difficult climbs.
Stage 20 is also a gruelling mountain leg before Sunday's finish in Milan.
Share
