An open field vies for glory in the sharp hills of the Basque Country – Analysing the contenders at Itzulia Women

The Itzulia Women 2026 promises an exciting contest as a diverse group of riders prepare to tackle the challenging Basque hills over three stages from May 15 to 17. Covering 390 kilometres with 6,800 metres of elevation and 14 significant climbs, the race begins in Zarautz and finishes in Donostia, testing riders’ climbing prowess and endurance. This event follows closely on the heels of La Vuelta Femenina, where home favourite Paula Blasi claimed a memorable victory, although she will not be competing at Itzulia this year. Among the leading contenders is Juliette Berthet of FDJ United-SUEZ, who has shown strong form, finishing fifth overall at La Vuelta Femenina and securing a podium on the Angliru climb. Berthet will be supported by teammates Marie Le Net and Évita Muzic, both of whom have also demonstrated solid performances recently. Meanwhile, SD Worx-Protime brings a youthful but promising duo in Valentina Cavallar and Mischa Bredewold, both of whom impressed at La Vuelta, with Bredewold notably finishing second in the previous two editions of Itzulia Women. Movistar’s hopes rest on Liane Lippert, who is seeking her first victory since February and has consistently placed in the top 10 during La Vuelta’s hilly stages. Her past successes on terrain similar to Itzulia’s suggest she is well-suited to the race’s demanding profile. Another rider to watch is Petra Stiasny of Human Powered Health, fresh from a breakthrough win atop the Angliru, which is regarded as one of the toughest climbs in professional cycling. Stiasny’s recent form and climbing ability position her as a strong contender on the sharp, steep ascents of the Basque Country. Local interest centres on Usoa Ostolaza of Laboral Kutxa-Fundación Euskadi, who impressed with a fourth-place finish at La Vuelta Femenina and is eager to deliver a home victory. Having already taken a solo win at the GP Eibar earlier this year, Ostolaza carries the hopes of the Basque fans on familiar roads. Canyon-SRAM zondacrypto will be represented by Antonia Niedermaier, who leads their charge in the region, adding further depth to the competitive field. With several riders in excellent form and a course that favours strong climbers, Itzulia Women is set to be a fiercely contested race. The absence of some previous champions opens the door for emerging talents and established stars alike to make their mark. As the peloton navigates the steep Basque hills, the race will provide a significant early-season test ahead of the summer’s Grand Tours and World Championships.