The 2026 edition of La Vuelta Femenina is approaching its thrilling conclusion, with the final two stages set in Asturias promising a spectacular showdown. The general classification remains incredibly tight, with all top contenders separated by mere seconds, setting the stage for a dramatic battle over the next 48 hours.
Among the favorites, including Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, Kasya Niewiadoma, and Anna van der Breggen, Spain’s hopes rest on Paula Blasi and Mavi García. Both riders, teammates at UAE Team ADQ, are poised to fight for top honors in Friday’s explosive finish at Les Praeres (4 km at an average gradient of 12.6%). This serves as a prelude to Saturday’s queen stage, featuring the debut of the Angliru (12 km at 10.3%) in women’s cycling. The red jersey, currently held by Lotte Kopecky, will change hands as the race intensifies, despite her teammate Mischa Bredewold’s victory in the fifth stage.
Mischa Bredewold Wins Sprint in Astorga
The 120 km stage between León and Astorga offered a flatter profile compared to previous days, reducing the challenge for the main teams. A breakaway featuring strong Spanish riders Idoia Eraso and Sara Martín, alongside Dutch rider Aniek van Alphen, kept the peloton under pressure. With 30 km remaining, the tension escalated, causing a crash involving Letizia Paternoster. The Italian rider changed bikes and rejoined the main group.
The sprinters’ teams eventually reeled in the escapees with 9 km to go, just as rain began to fall. Navigating the slippery roads and roundabouts proved hazardous, leading to a multi-rider crash that saw Anna van der Breggen hit the ground. However, she benefited from the protected zone rule for crashes or mechanicals. In a chaotic sprint, Bredewold launched Kopecky but still had enough power to take the win, while her Belgian teammate controlled the pace to secure the victory for SD Worx. The race now enters its decisive phase in Asturias.
Results of Stage 5
1. Mischa Bredewold (SD Worx) – 2h 54:07
2. Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx) – same time
3. Letizia Paternoster (Liv Jayco) – same time
General Classification
1. Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx) – 15h 04:47
2. Franziska Koch (FDJ) – +12″
3. Cédrine Kerbaol (EF) – +18″
10. Paula Blasi (UAE) – +32″
13. Mavi García (UAE) – same time
