'Everybody knows somebody who is struggling' –Powered by meditation, tearful Demi Vollering embraces emotions of first Tour of Flanders triumph

Demi Vollering celebrated her maiden Tour of Flanders victory with a deeply emotional response, highlighting the mental as well as physical demands of professional cycling. The Dutch rider broke away solo with 18 kilometres remaining and crossed the finish line in Oudenaarde, visibly moved by the achievement. Her win was not only a testament to her physical strength but also to her commitment to mental wellbeing, an issue she has openly championed throughout her career. Vollering revealed that meditation plays a crucial role in her preparation, helping her maintain calmness amid the pressures of racing. She has been practising meditation consistently since the start of the year, emphasising that mental training requires as much dedication as physical conditioning. The rider’s emotional connection to mental health was evident when she became tearful discussing the topic, recalling how her previous gestures and words at the 2023 Vuelta Femenina resonated with many in the peloton who struggle with similar issues. Since joining FDJ United-Suez as the undisputed team leader, Vollering has thrived with the full backing of her squad. She contrasted this with her previous role at SD Worx, where leadership was shared, noting that having a team wholly committed to her ambitions has brought out her best performances. Vollering acknowledged the pressure that comes with being the focal point but insisted that the support of her teammates fuels her hunger to succeed and deliver victories for the whole group. Her influence appears to have elevated the entire FDJ United-Suez team, inspiring riders like Franzi Koch and Elise Chabbey to raise their own standards. Vollering values the strong connections she has built within the team, believing that shared emotions and collective effort are key to their success. This winning culture has fostered a mindset focused solely on victory, pushing the squad to new heights and creating a positive feedback loop of ambition and achievement. Looking ahead, Vollering’s clear-headed approach and mental resilience position her as a formidable contender in the classics and beyond. Her advocacy for mental health awareness continues to resonate within the sport, encouraging open conversations and support among riders. As she builds on this landmark win, the cycling world will be watching how her leadership and holistic focus on mind and body shape her future campaigns.