As it Happened: Young French star launches explosive sprint to win Brabantse Pijl Women

French rider Célia Gery claimed a stunning first professional victory at the 2026 Brabantse Pijl Women’s race, delivering an impressive long-range sprint to outpace her rivals in a small group finish. The 20-year-old from FDJ United-SUEZ showcased remarkable power and endurance, launching her sprint early and holding off strong challenges from Dutch rider Mischa Bredewold and Italy’s Silvia Persico. Gery’s win marks a significant breakthrough in her young career, particularly as she had been supporting her more experienced teammate Franziska Koch, the recent Paris-Roubaix winner. The race itself was marked by aggressive tactics and a series of breakaways that ultimately failed to hold off the chasing peloton. Early moves by riders including Dijkstra and Adegeest set the tone, but their efforts were neutralised as Van der Breggen and others worked to reel them back in. Despite several attacks on the final climbs, the decisive moment came in the closing kilometres when the leading group was brought together, setting the stage for the dramatic sprint finish. Gery expressed satisfaction with her timing and the teamwork that helped her secure the win, praising her teammates for their efforts in closing the gap to the breakaway. The race highlighted her tactical acumen and physical strength, suggesting she is a rising talent to watch in women’s professional cycling. Meanwhile, Ashleigh Moolman Pasio and Fleur Moors also delivered strong performances, finishing just outside the podium places. This victory could signal the start of a new chapter for Gery, positioning her as a contender in upcoming classics and stage races. The Brabantse Pijl Women’s race once again demonstrated the depth and competitiveness of the women’s peloton, with several teams playing key roles in shaping the race dynamics. As the season progresses, Gery’s breakthrough win will likely boost her confidence and raise expectations for future successes.