Alberto Dainese won today's stage at the Giro d'Italia - one for the sprinters, and his second ever stage win at the race ©La Presse

Italian cyclist Alberto Dainese has won his second ever stage at the Giro d’Italia after winning in a sprint finish at Caorle.

Dainese, who rides for Team DSM, won stage 11 of last year’s edition, and followed it up with success in stage 17 today.

Dainese crossed the line in 4hours 26min 8sec, leading home the field in front of compatriot Jonathan Milan, who rides for Bahrain Victorious.

The podium on the day was completed by Australian Michael Matthews, riding for Team Jayco Allula, with both finishing on the same time.

Reflecting on his victory, Dainese described it as "an immense joy."

"The guys did an outstanding job," Dainese said.

Geraint Thomas retained the Maglia Rosa after a quiet day at the Giro d'Italia before the mountains that are to come ©Getty Images
Geraint Thomas retained the Maglia Rosa after a quiet day at the Giro d'Italia before the mountains that are to come ©Getty Images

"I was in front too early so I deflected and waited for someone to start.

"I was able to catch up and pass Matthews right in the last few metres. 

"I have to be honest, I thought I didn't make it."

Today’s 197 kilometres stage from Persine Valsugana to Caorle was considered one for the sprinters, and with flat terrain and some gruelling mountain stages to come, it was a calm affair in the race for the overall title - the Maglia Rosa.

There was no change to the overall general classification with Britain’s Geraint Thomas, riding for Ineos Grenadiers, retaining the leader’s pink jersey.

Portuguese rider João Almeida, of UAE Team Emirates, remains second at 18 seconds adrift, with Slovenia’s Primož Roglič, competing for Team Jumbo-Visma, third at 29 seconds behind.

The action moves to the mountains for tomorrow’s stage, with riders set to tackle 161km from Oderzo to Val di Zoldo, which includes two category one climbs - the Passo Della Crosetta and the Forcella Cibiana.