Epic Solo Triumph: Ricarda Bauernfeind Shines in Tour de France Femme Stage 5

After the grueling challenges of stage 4, stage 5 of the Tour de France Femme promised a flat run-in to Albi, but the day turned out to be anything but predictable. The peloton faced intense heat and brutal climbs, leading to the loss of several riders, including the main favorite for a stage win, European Champion Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx).

Despite the challenging conditions, an 11-rider attack attempted to gain a lead, but SD Worx kept a close eye on the move. The peloton split due to the high pace, and the supposed sprint stage turned into a race of attrition.

The race witnessed some unfortunate crashes that affected top riders like Coryn Rivera (Jumbo-Visma) and Lizzie Deignan (Lidl-Trek), while Demi Vollering (SD Worx) suffered a puncture. On the steep Côte de Najac, the breakaway was caught, and Anouska Koster (Uno-X) lost touch, failing to secure points in the mountains classification.

Yara Kastelijn (Fenix-Deceuninck), the stage 4 winner, showcased her climbing prowess once again, claiming maximum points on the category 3 Côte de Laguépie. Her outstanding performance saw her take the lead in the mountains classification.

With only one climb remaining in the final 40km, Jumbo-Visma initiated a move, but Canyon-Sram’s Ricarda Bauernfeind powered up the 7% grade to claim the time bonus sprint at Castelfadèze. Bauernfeind’s impressive solo effort earned her the six-second time bonus.

With a strong advantage, Bauernfeind continued to hold her ground, and despite relentless attacks from the chasing group, her lead remained intact. SD Worx began closing the gap in the final kilometers, but the determined neo-pro Bauernfeind continued to push ahead.

In a nail-biting finish, Bauernfeind held off the powerful pace of Marlen Reusser (Team SD Worx) and stage 2 winner Liane Lippert (Movistar) to secure a remarkable solo victory. The German’s tenacity and indomitable spirit earned her a stunning triumph, making it an unforgettable stage 5 of the Tour de France Femme.

The stage showcased the resilience and determination of the riders as they battled through difficult conditions and challenging climbs. Ricarda Bauernfeind’s brave solo attack proved that victory can be achieved through sheer determination and grit, even in the face of fierce competition.

As the Tour de France Femme continues to unfold, each stage brings new surprises and challenges, highlighting the incredible talent and dedication of the athletes. The race to the finish line is far from over, and fans around the world eagerly await the next chapters of this thrilling cycling spectacle.