Groves Wins Neutralized Giro Stage 6 After Massive Crash

Australian cyclist Kaden Groves won the sixth stage of the Giro d'Italia in a sprint finish after the stage was neutralized due to a massive crash involving about half the peloton with 70 kilometers remaining. The crash, caused by slippery wet conditions following rain, notably involved 2022 winner Jai Hindley, who was taken to hospital with a concussion, forcing some riders to abandon the race. Race organizers decided to neutralize the stage for safety, awarding only the stage win without any points, time gaps, or bonuses, meaning all riders were given the same finishing time. Despite being affected by the crash, overall leader Mads Pedersen continued and retained the pink jersey, choosing not to contest the sprint to avoid further risk. The neutralization allowed the race to finish in Naples while preserving the overall standings ahead of the more challenging mountainous seventh stage. The Giro d'Italia continues with a summit finish expected in the next stage, providing opportunities for contenders to make strategic moves.