La Flèche Wallonne Femmes: Demi Vollering delivers victory with Mur de Huy acceleration and holds off surging Puck Pieterse

Demi Vollering of FDJ United-SUEZ claimed victory at the La Flèche Wallonne Femmes 2026 with a powerful acceleration on the iconic Mur de Huy climb. The European Champion took the lead with 700 metres remaining and maintained her advantage, dropping her rivals by the 500-metre mark. Despite a late and determined charge from Puck Pieterse of Fenix-Premier Tech, Vollering crossed the finish line a bike length ahead, securing a hard-fought win. The race featured an early two-rider breakaway after the first ascent of the Mur de Huy, which was eventually reeled in on the Côte de Cherave. FDJ United-SUEZ’s Elise Chabbey set a punishing pace that fractured the peloton, resulting in a select group of 19 riders contesting the final climb. Vollering capitalised on the strong team effort and took control after Chabbey’s lead-out, maintaining a relentless tempo until the finish. Vollering reflected on her win with pride, emphasising her focus on pacing and trust in her team’s support. She admitted she was unaware of Pieterse’s late surge until the final moments, prompting a final sprint to the line. Vollering praised her teammates’ strength and tactical execution, highlighting the perfect breakaway and the collective effort that set the stage for her victory. The podium was completed by Paula Blasi of UAE Team ADQ in third place, followed by Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney (Canyon-SRAM zondacrypto) and Anna van der Breggen (SD Worx-Protime) in fourth and fifth respectively. The race showcased a star-studded peloton and intense competition, underscoring the growing depth and excitement in women’s professional cycling. Vollering’s triumph on the Mur de Huy cements her status as a formidable force in the Ardennes classics.