On May 8, 2025, the Vuelta Femenina 2025 witnessed a thrilling display of strength as Demi Vollering of FDJ-SUEZ clinched victory in the fifth stage, a challenging 120.4-kilometer route from Golmayo to Lagunas de Neila. This stage marked the first mountain challenge of the race, featuring a grueling climb that culminated at Lagunas de Neila, which has an elevation gain of 6.5 kilometers at an average gradient of 9.1%.
The day started with a notable absence in the peloton, as French champion Pauline Ferrand-Prévot did not start the race, citing she "did not feel fit enough to continue," according to her team. This left the field open for other competitors to stake their claim for the coveted red jersey.
As the race unfolded, four riders initially broke away from the pack, forming a lead group that included Maike van der Duin (CANYON//SRAM Zondacrypto), Julia Borgström (AG Insurance – Soudal Team), Arianna Fidanza (Laboral Kutxa – Fundación Euskadi), and Lea Lin Teutenberg (Lotto Ladies). They managed to extend their lead to a maximum of 2 minutes and 30 seconds before the peloton began to reel them in.
With approximately 20 kilometers left in the stage, the riders faced the first categorized climb of the day, the Alto de Rozavientos, which is 3.8 kilometers long with an average gradient of 8.4%. The FDJ-SUEZ team, led by Vollering and her teammate Juliette Labous, ramped up the pace, causing significant attrition within the peloton. This aggressive strategy effectively dropped several competitors, including the previous red jersey holder, Femke Gerritse, who suffered an unfortunate fall and was quickly distanced.
The final ascent to Lagunas de Neila was where Vollering truly showcased her prowess. As the climb intensified, the tension in the air was palpable. At around 4 kilometers from the finish, Vollering launched a decisive attack that left her rivals scrambling. Her powerful surge proved too much for the competition, as she soloed to victory, crossing the line 24 seconds ahead of Marlen Reusser of Movistar Team, who finished second, and 56 seconds ahead of Anna van der Breggen of Team SD Worx – Protime, who took third place.
Vollering’s time for the stage was an impressive 3 hours, 19 minutes, and 57 seconds, marking her fourth victory of the season and securing her the red jersey as the overall leader of the Vuelta Femenina. In her post-race comments, Vollering expressed her emotional connection to the win, stating, "I am very happy to win this stage, very proud of the team's work. The last few days have been a little tougher. Someone very close to me is going through a tough time. I see many young people suffering, so today I gave it my all. I did everything I could because I know I am very strong mentally."
The performance of the day was not just about Vollering, as several other riders also had noteworthy finishes. Cédrine Kerbaol secured sixth place, followed closely by Marion Bunel in seventh and Juliette Labous in eighth. This strong showing from the French riders provided a silver lining to a day that started with disappointment due to Ferrand-Prévot's withdrawal.
As the Vuelta Femenina continues, the stakes are higher than ever. With Vollering now in the red jersey, the pressure mounts on her competitors to respond in the upcoming stages. The race is far from over, and with the mountainous terrain still to come, fans can expect more thrilling action as the peloton battles for supremacy.
Looking ahead, the next stages promise to be equally challenging, with more climbs that could shake up the general classification. Vollering’s victory today not only solidifies her position as a favorite for the overall title but also sends a clear message to her rivals: she is in formidable form and ready to defend her lead.
As the dust settles on this stage, cycling enthusiasts are left to ponder the implications of today’s results. Will Vollering maintain her lead? Can Reusser and van der Breggen find a way to challenge her dominance? The excitement of the Vuelta Femenina 2025 is just beginning to unfold, and all eyes will be on the next stages as the battle for the red jersey intensifies.
