From a mountain time trial to the first visit to an iconic climb – Analysing the key stages of the Giro d'Italia Women

The 2026 Giro d'Italia Women promises to be a fiercely contested race, with several key stages likely to shape the battle for the maglia rosa. Following the conclusion of La Vuelta Femenina, attention now turns to this nine-day event covering 1,177 kilometres and 12,000 metres of climbing. Among the top contenders are Elisa Longo Borghini, aiming for a third Giro title, alongside Demi Vollering, Anna van der Breggen, and Marlen Reusser. The race route features a mix of sprint opportunities and punishing mountain challenges that will test the riders’ endurance and tactical acumen. Stage 4 presents the first significant test for the general classification contenders with a mountain time trial from Belluno to Nevegal. This 12.7-kilometre climb, reminiscent of the 2011 men’s Giro time trial won by Alberto Contador, is steep and demanding, featuring sections with gradients up to 14%. While this is the only individual time trial of the race, it is unlikely to be decisive overall given the tougher mountain stages to come. Nevertheless, it offers a crucial early indication of form and could set the tone for the battles ahead. Stage 5 continues the Dolomites challenge with a 146-kilometre route packed with four major climbs and over 3,400 metres of elevation gain. The course includes the Passo Tre Croci, Passo di Sant’Antonio, and two ascents of the Costa climb, with hardly any flat terrain to offer respite. Although it lacks a summit finish, the relentless climbing and strategic opportunities for attacks make it a pivotal day for the GC hopefuls. Teams may look to exploit the early climbs to test rivals, especially after the exertions of the previous day’s time trial. The race’s queen stage, Stage 8, is likely to be the defining moment of the Giro, featuring the iconic Colle delle Finestre climb for the first time in the women’s race. This 18.5-kilometre ascent, with an average gradient of 9.2% and a challenging gravel section in the final 8 kilometres, has a storied history in the men’s Giro as a decisive battleground. The stage’s demanding profile and the cumulative fatigue of the preceding days make it the prime opportunity for contenders to launch decisive moves and potentially seize the overall lead. The inclusion of such a legendary climb underscores the increasing ambition and prestige of the women’s Giro d’Italia.