German cyclist Demi Vollering revealed she told rival Anna van der Breggen during the final stage of the Giro d’Italia Women that she would “take the win” as the Dutch rider’s lead crumbled, according to a post-race interview with WielerFlits. The revelation adds drama to a race where Vollering overcame a 22-second deficit to claim the overall victory, marking her first UCI Women’s World Tour title.
What Happened in the Final Stage?
Vollering’s decisive move came during the 113-kilometer final stage from Verona to Milan, where she attacked with 15 kilometers remaining to break away from Van der Breggen, the pre-race favorite. The German rider, riding for SD Worx-Proximo, finished 12 seconds ahead of Van der Breggen, who had led the race since the third stage.
“I told her in the final kilometers that I would take the win,” Vollering said in the interview. “She didn’t believe me, but I knew I had the strength to do it.” The statement was confirmed by SD Worx-Proximo team manager Ludo Poute, who described the exchange as “a tactical masterstroke.”
Why This Conversation Matters
The exchange highlights the psychological warfare inherent in women’s professional cycling, where riders often use verbal tactics to gain an edge. Van der Breggen, a three-time Giro d’Italia Women winner, had entered the final stage with a 22-second lead, but Vollering’s aggressive approach disrupted her rhythm.
“It was a moment of confidence,” said Cyclingnews commentator Sarah Coates. “Vollering’s audacity to speak openly about her intent is rare. It shows her belief in her form and the team’s strategy.”
How the Race Unfolded
The final stage featured a challenging route with three categorized climbs, including the 12.5-kilometer ascent of the Passo del Tonale. Vollering’s team orchestrated a late attack, with teammate Lorena Wiebes leading the charge to create gaps in the peloton. Van der Breggen, riding for Boels-Dropside, was forced to chase but could not close the deficit.
Van der Breggen’s team later acknowledged the tactical pressure. “We expected a strong finish, but Vollering’s timing was perfect,” said BBC Sport reporter Tom Dymond. “Her team’s coordination was exceptional.”
What This Means for the Giro d’Italia Women
Vollering’s victory marks a shift in the dominance of Dutch riders in the race. Van der Breggen, who had won the Giro in 2019, 2020, and 2021, now faces questions about her ability to maintain her streak. The result also elevates Vollering as a rising star in women’s cycling, with Road Cycling noting her “relentless attacking style.”
The win comes amid broader discussions about the growth of women’s cycling. Women’s Cycling News highlighted the Giro’s increasing global appeal, with 18 nations represented in the 135-rider peloton.
What’s Next for Vollering and Van der Breggen?
Vollering is set to compete in the Tour de France Femmes in July, where she will face a stacked field including Van der Breggen and Marta Bastianelli. Van der Breggen, meanwhile, will focus on the Vuelta Femenina, where she aims to reclaim her title.
“The Giro was a turning point,” Vollering said. “I’m ready for the challenges ahead.”
Key Takeaways
- Vollering’s post-race revelation underscores the mental aspects of cycling strategy.
- The Giro d’Italia Women saw a record 18 nations represented, reflecting the race’s global growth.
- Van der Breggen’s three consecutive Giro titles ended, raising questions about her future competitiveness.
- Vollering’s victory positions her as a key
