'I did it, we did it. I can hardly believe it' - Demi Vollering becomes the second-ever woman to win all three Grand Tours

Demi Vollering has etched her name into cycling history by becoming only the second woman to win all three of the sport’s Grand Tours: the Giro d’Italia Women, La Vuelta Femenina, and the Tour de France Femmes. Her victory at the Giro d’Italia Women was secured in dramatic fashion on the final stage, overcoming a 49-second deficit to take the overall lead. Despite adverse weather conditions that shortened the penultimate stage and dashed her hopes of an earlier surge, Vollering’s tactical brilliance and determination saw her overturn the race on the demanding climb to Sestriere, finishing over two minutes ahead of her closest rival. The Dutch rider’s triumph completes a remarkable triple crown that began with her Tour de France Femmes win in 2023, followed by success at the Vuelta a year later. At 29, Vollering’s achievement highlights not only her personal talent and resilience but also the expanding opportunities within women’s professional cycling. The Tour de France Femmes, only inaugurated in 2022, has added a new dimension to the sport, allowing riders like Vollering to compete for and claim a full set of Grand Tour titles within their careers. While Vollering is the second to complete this feat, the first was fellow Dutchwoman Annemiek van Vleuten, who retired in 2023 after a decorated career that included victories in all three Grand Tours as well as prestigious one-day races and world titles. Vollering’s accomplishment underscores the rapid evolution of women’s cycling and the increasing recognition of its athletes. Her willingness to take risks and embrace the possibility of failure was a key factor in her success, as she reflected on the final climb as “the time trial of my life,” where she dared to lose everything to win. Looking ahead, Vollering is set to compete at the Tour de Suisse on 17 June, continuing her pursuit of excellence in the sport. Her recent victories serve as a powerful reminder of the growing depth of talent in women’s cycling and the new heights that can be reached as the calendar and opportunities expand. Vollering’s story is one of perseverance, strategic acumen, and the breaking of new ground in a sport that is rapidly evolving.