As it happened: A dramatic late change in the overall after stage 9 of the Giro d'Italia Women deals a pulsating game of poker on wheels

Stage 9 of the 2026 Giro d’Italia Women delivered a thrilling conclusion to the race, with Demi Vollering of FDJ United - SUEZ making a decisive late attack to overtake Anna van der Breggen in the overall standings. The 145km stage, starting and finishing in Saluzzo, featured nearly 2,100 metres of climbing and tested the riders on a demanding route that flirted with the Alps. Vollering’s performance on the final day, following her strong showing on the Colle delle Finestre the previous day, ultimately secured her the overall victory in what was described as a gripping “game of poker on wheels.” The stage itself was characterised by a tactical battle, with a fast start and several breakaway attempts that were quickly neutralised by the peloton. The route included multiple climbs, such as Montoso, Colletta di Paesana, and Colletta di Brondello, with the final climb topping out almost 39km from the finish line. Despite a crash involving riders from several teams, including UAE Team ADQ and EF Education-Oatly, the race remained fiercely competitive, with key contenders closely marking one another. Elisa Longo Borghini claimed the stage win in a sprint finish, adding further excitement to the finale. Vollering’s victory was not without challenges, as she admitted that the shortened stage 8 had disrupted her team’s plans. Nonetheless, her resilience and strategic acumen shone through, enabling her to capitalise on the mountainous terrain and the tactical nuances of the final day. The race organisers also faced unexpected difficulties, such as an avalanche on the Colle delle Finestre, which required swift adjustments to the route and logistics, underscoring the unpredictable nature of mountain racing. Looking ahead, Vollering’s triumph solidifies her status as a leading figure in women’s cycling, while the dramatic shifts in the general classification highlight the growing depth and competitiveness of the Giro d’Italia Women. The race’s conclusion promises to fuel anticipation for next year’s edition, with riders and teams likely to analyse the tactical lessons from this pulsating finale. For fans and followers of electric motorsport and cycling, the event reaffirmed the thrilling spectacle that stage racing can provide, blending endurance, strategy, and sheer determination.