Demi Vollering’s Majestic Climb: A Triumph on the Col du Tourmalet in Tour de France Femme

The 2023 Tour de France Femme reached its pinnacle on the legendary slopes of the Col du Tourmalet, where the peloton faced a grueling 89.8km stage with a summit finish. However, the day began with news of seven abandons, including Elisa Balsamo and Elisa Longo-Borghini from Lidl-Trek, due to fatigue and a skin infection, respectively.

As the cyclists set off from Lannemezan, the tension was palpable, and within the first 10km, a crash involved Lianne Lippert (Movistar). Fortunately, Annemiek van Vleuten narrowly avoided the fall, but the peloton remained on edge. Early attacks were launched by Julie De Wilde (Fenix-Deceuninck) and Alice Barnes (Human Powered Health), but the peloton soon reeled them in.

Susanne Andersen (Uno-X) and Margot Pompanon (St Michel-Mavic-Auber93) briefly escaped, sharing the points at the intermediate sprint. However, the fierce peloton regrouped before the ascent of the Col d’Aspin, where the battle for the general classification intensified.

Lippert took charge on the Col d’Aspin, thinning out the favorites’ group, with Van Vleuten showing signs of fatigue. In the final kilometer of the climb, Van Vleuten made her move, accompanied only by Kasia Niewiadoma and Demi Vollering. The three leaders descended together, offering Niewiadoma a rare opportunity to gain a significant advantage while the chasing group hesitated.

Lotte Kopecky, the yellow jersey wearer, showcased her resilience, staying with the group despite the challenging mountain terrain. Marlene Reusser (SD Worx) bridged the gap, bringing the groups together as they faced the ascent of the Col du Tourmalet.

With 17km to go and a challenging 7.3% average gradient, the stage was set for a war of attrition on the iconic mountain pass. Niewiadoma held her lead for the initial part of the climb, but Vollering, Van Vleuten, and the chasing group closed in. Vollering’s strength became evident as she overtook Niewiadoma with only 5 kilometers remaining.

In a dominant display, Vollering rode solo to victory atop the Col du Tourmalet, claiming the Queen Stage of the Tour de France Femme. Niewiadoma held on for second place, while Annemiek van Vleuten crossed the line in third.

Vollering’s exceptional performance resulted in her securing the yellow jersey, leading the overall classification by 1:50 on Niewiadoma and 2:28 on Van Vleuten. The previous leader, Lotte Kopecky, slipped to fourth place, trailing by 2:35.

The stage showcased Vollering’s remarkable talent, supported by her team’s excellent work. She expressed her elation at wearing the yellow jersey and credited her team’s belief in her abilities.

Tomorrow’s 22km time trial in Pau will determine the final outcome of the Tour de France Femme. Vollering remains focused and determined to maintain her lead, eager to test her limits and gain valuable experience for the future.

As the thrilling race heads to its conclusion, cycling enthusiasts eagerly await the final showdown, acknowledging the impressive performances and resilience displayed by the cyclists throughout the Tour de France Femme.