Van Den Broeck managed to stay with the group with most of the overall favourites during yesterdays mountain stage of the first Grand Tour of the 2008 season. Yesterday the riders had to climb the Gavia, Mortirolo, and Aprica. During the sprint for fourth place Van Den Broeck touched the back wheel of Domenico Pozzovivo (CSF – Navigare) and both riders crashed. Van Den Broeck told 'Het Laatste Nieuws': "Fortunately without further consequenses." Van Den Broeck continued by saying: "I have some grazes on my elbows and calves, but I am not worried about that. During the race I have suffered a lot. I have a muscle injury at the back of one of my knees and that hinders me. I grit my teeth."

Asked if his position in the top ten overall could be in danger, Van Den Broeck said: "In the time trial I will grit my teeth to handle the pain. Di Luca is only eight seconds in front of me, maybe I can pass him. But I will be glad if I am able to keep my eight position."