As it happened: Spanish glory at La Vuelta Femenina as the climbers put on a show on L'Angliru on stage 7

Paula Blasi of UAE Team ADQ claimed a remarkable overall victory at the 2026 La Vuelta Femenina, securing her win with a dramatic performance on the iconic Alto de L'Angliru during the final stage. Despite finishing second on the stage itself, Blasi’s consistency and climbing prowess throughout the race propelled her to the top of the general classification. The stage win went to Petra Stiasny of Human Powered Health, who showcased her exceptional climbing ability by soloing to victory on one of the toughest ascents in professional cycling. Blasi’s triumph marks a significant moment for Spanish cycling, as the 23-year-old rider emerged from relative obscurity to dominate one of the sport’s most demanding events. Having only begun racing competitively in 2024, her rapid rise has been extraordinary, highlighted by recent victories such as the Amstel Gold Race. Her team’s full commitment and her mature race management were key factors in her success, illustrating the ongoing evolution and increasing depth within women’s professional cycling. The race also signalled a generational shift in the women’s peloton, with several young talents like 21-year-old Marion Bunel finishing strongly and challenging the established stars. Defending champion Anna van der Breggen, who finished fifth on the stage and second overall, was unable to maintain her dominance, reflecting a broader trend of emerging riders reshaping the competitive landscape. Blasi’s victory, alongside the strong performances of other young climbers, suggests a changing of the guard at the highest level of the sport. Blasi’s emotional reaction after the race underscored the personal significance of winning on home soil, particularly on a legendary climb like L’Angliru, which she described as her “happy place.” Meanwhile, Stiasny’s stage win served as a redemption after a challenging period marked by difficulties with descents and bunch riding, reaffirming her status as one of the world’s premier pure climbers. The 2026 La Vuelta Femenina thus concluded with a thrilling display of emerging talent and a fresh chapter in women’s cycling.