Merlier sprints to Giro 18th stage win as Pogacar keeps lead

Belgian Merlier pipped local hero Jonathan Milan over the line in Padova after 178 kilometres of riding to claim his second victory in this year's Giro. The Soudal-Quick Step rider had to hold off Milan in the final few metres despite both him and his Italian rival being boxed in towards the chaotic climax of the race. "Coming from the back is not that easy but we managed well to find a good position," said Merlier. "I could feel someone coming on the left... then I saw it was Milan on my left and I jumped.