'The sting is in the tail for the GC riders' – SD Worx-Protime back Anna van der Breggen and Nienke Vinke for podium challenge in brutally hard Vuelta Femenina

SD Worx-Protime is gearing up for a strong showing at the upcoming La Vuelta Femenina, with Anna van der Breggen leading the charge. After a rare winless April, the team is optimistic about their prospects in the demanding week-long race across northern Spain, which features some of the toughest terrain in the event’s history. Van der Breggen, who finished third overall last year and claimed a mountain stage victory, will be supported by a well-rounded squad aiming for both stage wins and a high general classification (GC) placing. The race’s defining moments are expected to come during the final weekend, with back-to-back summit finishes at Les Praeres and the infamous L’Angliru. Van der Breggen’s climbing prowess and experience in Grand Tours make her a formidable contender on these brutal ascents. Team manager Danny Stam highlighted her strong form following a solid Ardennes campaign and expressed confidence that she could challenge the best riders for the overall title, despite the stiff competition. Supporting van der Breggen will be a mix of promising young talent and reliable domestiques. Nienke Vinke, a rising star who finished ninth overall and was the best young rider at last year’s Vuelta, returns for her second Grand Tour with SD Worx-Protime. Alongside her, Austrian hill climb champion Valentina Cavallar and experienced riders like Femke Markus and Julia Kopecký will provide crucial support. Stam emphasised Vinke’s potential for growth and the importance of her role in backing the team leader while also targeting a strong individual result. The team’s ambitions extend beyond just van der Breggen’s GC challenge, with riders like Milan-San Remo winner Lotte Kopecky and Mischa Bredewold also in contention for stage victories. The combination of experienced climbers and versatile riders aims to capitalise on the race’s varied profile. As the Vuelta Femenina continues to grow in prestige, SD Worx-Protime’s balanced squad looks well-positioned to contend across multiple fronts in one of the most demanding women’s stage races on the calendar.