The 28-year-old drove the pace onto final sector of dirt roads in the 124-kilometre day, putting several riders into difficulty before the climb and setting up teammate and reigning world champion Annemiek van Vleuten's solo victory.

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The win ensured the two-time defending Giro Rosa champion would take control of the pink leader's jersey with a one minute and 18 second lead over Anna van der Breggen (Boels-Dolmans).

Smith praised Brown, who was sporting the maglia verde (green jersey) as the leader of the queen of the mountain classification, following the stage.

"It was good work, especially Grace who did a great job lining it up for Annemiek and Spratty (Amanda Spratt) before the gravel section, so it was really good teamwork," he said.

Brown, who enjoyed the one day in the green jersey, took to social media to share her thoughts on the stage.

"Brutal day on the bike, but awesome results," she wrote on Instagram.

"There was not an inch of flat on today's stage and I suffered a lot, but super happy I could help our leaders into the final.

"Did one last big effort then pedalled squares the last 20km to the finish Annemiek van Vleuten took another stellar solo victory, so tomorrow we defend pink!"

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