With the goal of getting it into the break to play for the stage win, Team dsm-firmenich rode well with three riders in the early move. Romain Bardet went clear alongside Evenepoel, before the duo battled it out for the win with Bardet taking second at Larra-Belagua.
A fierce start to the day saw a big fight for the break with Alberto Dainese and Bardet getting in the original group, while Chris Hamilton then made it across in a counter move on the opening climb. A strong pace had to then be set on that first climb as the peloton upped the pace behind and reduced the gap to three minutes only with 90 kilometres remaining. Over the top Bardet followed Evenepoel who attacked and the duo flew down the descent, continuing to work well over the next climb and the following valley.
Behind the peloton eased off and coming to the final ascent, it was clear that the duo would duke it out for the stage win. Riding to his limits and with no regrets, Bardet tried as hard as he could but as Evenepoel turned the screw at three kilometres to go he had to let go of the wheel. Riding it in to the line, the Frenchman was able to take a very respectable and strong second place on the day after a two-up 90 kilometre time trial between them both.