Kasia Niewiadoma wins Mont Ventoux stage and takes Tour de France Femmes lead

Kasia Niewiadoma claimed a dramatic solo victory on the legendary Mont Ventoux, leaving the Tour de France Femmes favourites Marlen Reusser and Demi Vollering far behind. On the steep final climb, Niewiadoma surged ahead, finishing 15 seconds clear of Vollering and 39 seconds ahead of Reusser, and secured a slim overall lead in the race. The win marks her first stage victory in the Tour and adds a new chapter to her 2024 campaign, during which she has already taken the yellow jersey.

The climb of Mont Ventoux has long been a decisive battleground in the Tour, and Niewiadoma’s performance was a textbook example of tactical brilliance and physical endurance. She broke away early, maintaining a high pace that the other contenders could not match, and crossed the line alone in a display that many commentators described as “spectacular.” The result not only reshuffles the general‑classification standings but also underscores the depth of talent in the women’s peloton.

Niewiadoma, who has already won the yellow jersey this year, expressed her astonishment at the outcome: “It’s hard to describe my feelings because I’m still blown away by what just happened.” The victory sets the stage for an intense battle in the remaining stages, as the race continues to showcase the rising competitiveness and excitement of women’s professional cycling.