Dutch cyclist Demi Vollering is set to contend for a second Tour de France Femmes title as the race begins in Lausanne tomorrow, bringing fresh energy and a growing fanbase to women’s cycling. The 29-year-old leader of the FDJ United-Suez team has emerged as a prominent figure in the sport, known both for her competitive achievements and her openness on issues affecting athletes.
Vollering, the first female cyclist to earn €1 million in prize money and endorsements, captured the Tour de France Femmes crown in 2023. Since then, she has remained a top contender, finishing second in the subsequent two editions—losing by only four seconds to Kasia Niewiadoma in 2024 after a dramatic finale at Alpe d’Huez. Despite her consistent success, Vollering has faced scrutiny in the media, particularly in her native Netherlands, where some commentators suggested she might have been more competitive had she lost additional weight. She addressed the controversy directly ahead of this year’s race, emphasizing the importance of responsible media portrayal and the influence athletes have on young fans.
Reflecting on the pressure and public reactions, Vollering acknowledged that her candid personality can be viewed as “too much” in cycling, a sport still often characterized by traditional attitudes. “I’m emotional, I have a lot of stories to tell,” she said. “I’m just a different type, different personality.” Her willingness to speak openly about topics such as mental health, athlete wellbeing, and eating disorders has earned her support worldwide and positioned her as a role model within the sport.
This year, Vollering arrives at the Tour de France Femmes well-rested following an adjusted race schedule that saw her skip the Tour of Switzerland and Dutch national championships. FDJ United-Suez team manager Stephen Delcourt cited this strategic break as instrumental in allowing her to recover after illness and injury during last season’s campaign, enabling her to focus fully on her primary objective.
The race route includes a defining mountain stage three days before the finish, featuring the Tour’s first visit to Mont Ventoux—an iconic climb where Vollering first discovered her climbing abilities during teenage holidays. She recalls the experience as pivotal, explaining that her success on the mountain revealed her strength and mental resilience in high-altitude ascents. “I really found out I was a pretty good climber,” she said, describing the pride she felt passing male riders struggling on the hill.
Looking beyond this year’s race, Vollering also expressed enthusiasm for the Tour de France Femmes’ planned expansion to Britain next year, highlighting the growing prominence and appeal of women’s sports internationally. While cycling remains predominantly followed by male audiences, she noted positive changes as more women, children, and families attend races and support female athletes, reflecting broader growth in women’s sport.
As the 2026 Tour de France Femmes kicks off, Vollering stands poised not only to pursue victory but also to continue shaping the evolving landscape of women’s professional cycling.