As it happened: A solo win after a nail biting, tense finish at Amstel Gold Race Ladies Edition

Paula Blasi of UAE Team ADQ secured a remarkable solo victory at the 12th Amstel Gold Race Ladies Edition in 2026, holding off a strong chase group in a thrilling finale. Blasi’s decisive attack came in the closing stages of the 158.1km race, where she managed to build and maintain a lead of around a minute despite intense pressure from the favourites. Her win marks the biggest of her young career, highlighting her resilience and tactical acumen on a demanding course featuring multiple ascents of the Cauberg. The race saw fierce competition among some of the sport’s top riders, including Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney and Demi Vollering, who finished second and third respectively. Niewiadoma-Phinney’s performance was particularly notable as it marked her return to racing following a serious crash at Milan-Sanremo, demonstrating impressive form by out-sprinting Vollering in the final moments. Vollering and her FDJ United-SUEZ team had worked hard throughout the race, especially on the final Cauberg climb, but ultimately fell short of catching Blasi. Blasi’s victory is a significant milestone for UAE Team ADQ, underscoring their emergence as a leading force in women’s cycling this spring. Alongside strong performances from teammates like Swinkels, the team has translated consistent efforts into tangible success. Blasi herself reflected on the race with surprise at how events unfolded, recalling moments when she was dropped before regrouping and launching her winning move, emphasising the mental and physical challenges she overcame. Looking ahead, Blasi’s breakthrough win could signal a new chapter in her career, as she continues to build on previous successes including victories in smaller races and an uphill time trial at the Tour de Romandie. Meanwhile, the strong showings from Niewiadoma-Phinney and Vollering suggest that the spring classics season remains fiercely competitive, with several riders and teams poised to battle for honours in upcoming events. The Amstel Gold Race Ladies Edition once again delivered an exciting spectacle, reinforcing its status as a key fixture on the women’s WorldTour calendar.