In Dutch cycling, Vollering stands as the season’s dominant force, with a string of impressive performances that have kept rivals on high alert. The top rider has been outlasting strong challenges on every major stage, consistently raising the bar for her compatriot Annemiek van Vleuten since the 2023 campaign. The field feels the impact of Vollering’s surge, mirroring the formidable presence Tadej Pogacar displayed until his Liège setback, a parallel that underscores the intensity of this year’s competition.
Vollering has already asserted command, capturing two decisive stages including a demanding ascent to Lagos de Covadonga scheduled for Sunday. Back on Spanish soil, she found herself in a familiar spotlight as the race reached its climax, while van Vleuten of Movistar attempted to counter with tactical moves that fell short on the steep slopes of Segovia. The race’s narrative hints at a broader pattern: Vollering appears untouchable this season, building a remarkable tally that has many analysts predicting her as the favorite for the Women’s Tour if she maintains this form, with a slim but meaningful advantage over her closest rival.
THE BEST! THE BEST!
@demivollering – @SDWorx Mirador de Peñas claims the victory in Llanas! Vollering wins stage 5!
️ Acknowledgments pour in for the final kilometers from local sponsors and sports authorities, recognizing the support that keeps the early mornings fueling the energy of the race.
❤ #LaVueltaFemenina pic.twitter.com/klb3nV9s9A
— Women’s Tour by Carrefour.es (@LaVueltaFem) May 5, 2023
For sprinting rivals born on Dutch soil, the season has often felt guided by a superior edge. Riejanne Markus, another Dutch rider, sits in a strong podium position in the general classification, reinforcing the Netherlands as a powerhouse in contemporary stage racing. Vollering’s leadership is reinforced by the tactical acumen of her director, Anna van der Breggen, who commands the team’s fleet with a steady hand, counting four Giro d’Italia titles and two world championships among her personal achievements.
With the focus on the opening rounds, the race unfolds as a showcase for Dutch strength. Marianne Vos, a fallen queen in the wider cycling drama, remains a key figure in the relay alongside a rider who conquered Strade Bianche and has chased wins across Flanders, Amstel Gold Race, Fleche Wallonne, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège in 2023. Vollering set the pace on the final climb, holding off van Vleuten and delivering a powerful finish that left little room for dissent as the crowd roared in support. Spanish champion Mavi García trailed by a significant margin, marking 1.28 minutes by the end of the stage with Vollering holding the lead. The schedule continues with a 106-kilometer route from Castro-Urdiales to Laredo in Cantabria, expected to conclude around 3:30 PM on the following day, keeping fans glued to every kilometer of action.