5 Key Stages Paving the Way for 2026 Tour de France Femmes
The 2026 Tour de France Femmes looks set to be the toughest edition yet, with over 19,000 meters of elevation gain across 21 days. From Switzerland’s rolling hills to the legendary Mont Ventoux, each stage targets different skills and climbers.
Dutch champion Demi Vollering and French powerhouse Pauline Ferrand-Prevot battle for dominance, joined by other notable athletes like Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney and Marlen Reusser. The race begins with three Swiss stages followed by eight in France, before the final intense sprint through Nice.
Average 357m per stage, says one climbing expert.According to reporting by The Independent - Sport
Stage 1: Lausanne (Flat) | Race Starts June 4th
Bloody hills on the Côte Saint-François will challenge sprinters as they circle Lausanne. An average gradient of 4.6% makes this climb a critical part of day one’s race.
Climbed by: Paula Blasi, 2025 breakout star
Stamina and climbing prowess needed early on.According to a cycling coach
How will different strengths play out?
Sprinters should focus their efforts in the final sprint while climbers prepare for days of grueling climbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the main contenders?
Dutch Demi Vollering and French Pauline Ferrand-Prevot aim to retain their crowns, supported by Elisa Longo Borghini, Marlen Reusser, and Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney.
When does the race start?
The Tour de France Femmes 2026 kicks off on June 3rd in Switzerland before moving to France from June 5th to 24th, with a decisive final stage in Nice.