Overview

• Tim Merlier won stage 18 of the Giro d'Italia in a dramatic sprint finish in Padova.
• Merlier's victory marks his second stage win in this year's race, having also won stage three.
• Jonathan Milan finished second, followed by Kaden Groves in third place.
• Overall leader Tadej Pogacar kept his substantial lead of over seven minutes.
• The race now heads into the hills with a challenging 157km stage from Mortegliano to Sappada.