Lorena Wiebes and SD Worx-Protime aim to 'fine-tune leadout train' at Vuelta a Burgos ahead of Giro d'Italia maglia rosa bid

SD Worx-Protime is gearing up for the Vuelta a Burgos Feminas with a clear focus on building momentum ahead of the Giro d’Italia Women. The Dutch team arrives in Spain following Mischa Bredewold’s recent victory at the Itzulia Women, with both Bredewold and sprinter Lorena Wiebes leading their respective campaigns. Wiebes, known for her explosive sprinting ability, is using the four-day race from May 21 to 24 to sharpen her form and fine-tune the team’s leadout train in preparation for the Giro, which begins on May 30. The Vuelta a Burgos Feminas features three stages suited to sprinters before concluding with a challenging summit finish at Lagunas de Neila. Wiebes, who has already notched six wins this year including three stages at the UAE Tour Women and the In Flanders Fields title, is targeting the initial flat stages to add to her tally. She recently claimed victory at the Omloop der Kempen and has been balancing her road racing with track cycling and gravel events, all contributing to her endurance and sprinting prowess. Wiebes emphasises the importance of the upcoming race as a testing ground for the team’s sprint leadout, with Barbara Guarischi also part of the squad. She has set her sights on securing the maglia rosa in the opening stage of the Giro d’Italia Women and views Burgos as a crucial opportunity to refine tactics and team dynamics. However, the competition will be fierce, with notable sprinters such as Chiara Consonni and Elisa Balsamo also contesting the race. Meanwhile, Mischa Bredewold will aim to defend SD Worx-Protime’s strong presence in the race, though the overall classification is expected to be decided on the steep final climb. The 6km ascent with gradients up to 10% at Lagunas de Neila favours climbers like Évita Muzic, Dominika Włodarczyk, and Petra Stiasny, setting the stage for an intense battle for the general classification. The team’s performance in Burgos will provide valuable insights and momentum as they head into one of the season’s most prestigious stage races.