The seventh stage of the Tour de France Femmes saw riders tackle the iconic Mont Ventoux, a legendary climb known as the “Giant of Provence.” This stage, which ran from La Voulte-sur-Rhône to the summit of Mont Ventoux, was a highlight of the 2026 Tour de France Femmes edition. The challenging ascent featured approximately 3,500 metres of climbing.
Katarzyna Niewiadoma-Phinney launched a decisive attack approximately 10km from the summit, securing a significant victory. Her solo effort transformed the race standings, although Demi Vollering and Marlen Reusser remain close contenders. Niewiadoma-Phinney finished 1:16 ahead of Vollering, who placed second. Elisa Longo Borghini secured third place, finishing 1:42 behind the winner, after overtaking Reusser near the finish line. Reusser ultimately placed fourth, 1:46 down.
Following her victory, Niewiadoma-Phinney expressed her gratitude. She stated that the win was the result of support from many people during a long period without a major victory. She had prepared specifically for Mont Ventoux, having ridden the climb three times previously with friends and her husband, Taylor Phinney. She also drew encouragement from seeing her parents at the start of the final climb.
Race Dynamics and Standings
The final ascent from Bédoin measured 15.7km with an average gradient of 8.8%. The road had been rising for about 5km before the classified climb began. The exposed upper section and a persistent headwind added to the difficulty of the race. Niewiadoma-Phinney started the climb alongside other favourites, with the peloton being reduced by efforts from FDJ United-Suez, Movistar, and EF Education-Oatly. Eventually, only Niewiadoma-Phinney, Vollering, and Reusser remained at the front before Niewiadoma-Phinney made her decisive move.
Vollering and Reusser initially stayed together behind her, but their pursuit lost momentum as they sought shelter from the wind. With 8km remaining, Niewiadoma-Phinney had already gained enough time to become the virtual race leader. Her advantage continued to grow through Chalet Reynard, a point where she had planned to be alone. She noted that her strategy was to reach Chalet Reynard alone because of the strong wind, which would encourage chasers to stay on each other’s wheels.
Vollering eventually left Reusser behind with an attack in the final kilometres, reducing her deficit to the new yellow jersey wearer. Longo Borghini then caught and passed Reusser in the final 100 metres, securing third place and a time bonus. Longo Borghini’s performance marked a resurgence after losing 1:43 on stage 5. She remains fourth overall, 2:59 behind Niewiadoma-Phinney. Her teammate, Paula Blasi, finished fifth on Ventoux, just two seconds behind Reusser.
The Italian national champion, Longo Borghini, commented on her ride, acknowledging Kasia’s strong climb and her own pacing strategy. She mentioned working well with Paula Blasi to reel in Marlen Reusser. Longo Borghini described the final climb as very challenging but enjoyable, emphasizing the need for patience and mental strength.
Comte’s Learning Experience
For young French rider Ema Comte, this stage held particular significance as it was her first time tackling the slopes of Mont Ventoux in a competitive setting. She completed the grueling effort, crossing the finish line in 30th place. This result is seen as a step in her development as she competes against top climbers. Comte reflected on her experience, stating she enjoyed the race and rode at her own pace. She felt she regained her rhythm after two difficult days where she struggled to keep up.
Comte noted that the team was in better shape on this day. She specifically credited Malwina Mul for helping her get back into position, which allowed her to climb at her own pace. The large and supportive crowd also contributed to her positive experience. She aimed to enjoy the moment as much as possible.
Niewiadoma-Phinney has moved from third overall to first, but her lead is narrow. Vollering is only 15 seconds behind, with Reusser an additional 24 seconds back in third. Canyon-SRAM also maintained the white jersey through Antonia Niedermaier, who is fifth overall, 3:21 behind. Niedermaier encouraged her teammate at the foot of the final climb, telling her she was the strongest.
The overall battle continues with Sunday’s final stage in Nice. The 99.2km finale around Nice includes climbing the Col d’Èze four times, with the final pass on its hardest side. Niewiadoma-Phinney will start that day with Vollering and Reusser less than 40 seconds behind her.
Source: equipecofidis.com
