As the Strade Bianche Women approaches its 12th edition, the excitement in the cycling world is palpable. Scheduled to take place on March 7, 2026, this one-day classic will see the peloton tackle a grueling 133 km course through Tuscany, featuring eleven sectors of the iconic white gravel roads. The race culminates in a challenging ascent up the steep Via Santa Caterina, leading to the historic Piazza del Campo in Siena. With the recent performances at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad hinting at what’s to come, fans are eager to see how the competition unfolds, particularly among the top contenders, including Demi Vollering from FDJ United-SUEZ and Kasia Niewiadoma from Canyon-SRAM zondacrypto.
This year’s Strade Bianche Women promises to be one of the most competitive yet. The terrain presents not just gravel roads but also short, steep climbs that are ripe for decisive breakaways. Historically, the event has witnessed thrilling solo attacks and little lead groups battling it out for the lead as they approach the final climbs. With the strong lineup ready to compete, the dynamics of the race are set to be as intricate as ever.
Demi Vollering: The Defending Champion
Demi Vollering enters the race as a formidable favorite. Having already secured victories at the Vuelta Ciclista Setmana and Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, she has demonstrated exceptional form early in the season. Vollering, who has previously won Strade Bianche in 2023 and 2025, is well aware of the challenges that lie ahead, and her experience could be key in navigating the tough course.
Kasia Niewiadoma: Aiming for the Top Step
Kasia Niewiadoma, who finished second to Vollering at Omloop, is another strong contender. Known for her ability to maintain pace with the best, she was the only rider capable of following Vollering’s attack at the notoriously steep Muur van Geraardsbergen. Despite her impressive track record, Niewiadoma is still seeking her first win at Strade Bianche, having stood on the podium four times in the past. She has expressed that winning this race would hold significant personal meaning for her, marking a culmination of her long-term aspirations in cycling.
The Visma-Lease a Bike Duo
The Visma-Lease a Bike team also holds strong potential with riders like Pauline Ferrand-Prévot and Marianne Vos. Ferrand-Prévot is returning to the road after a successful mountain biking career, having won prestigious races like Paris-Roubaix and the Tour de France. She finished third at Strade Bianche last year and is expected to bring her versatility and strength to this year’s race.
Marianne Vos, a cycling legend in her own right, is not to be underestimated. As she embarks on her 20th year in professional cycling, Vos has shown no signs of slowing down. Her experience and tactical acumen could prove invaluable in the frantic final stages of the race.
SD Worx-Protime’s Strong Lineup
Another team to watch is SD Worx-Protime, featuring Anna van der Breggen and Lotte Kopecky. Van der Breggen returns after a three-year hiatus and has already made an impact with a second-place finish last year. Her experience on challenging terrains makes her a key player in this year’s race. Kopecky, a two-time winner of Strade Bianche, aims to rebound after facing mechanical issues at Omloop. The duo’s strategies could significantly influence the race outcome.
Other Contenders
Notice several other riders worth noting. Italian Champion Elisa Longo Borghini, who has not won since 2017 but has been on the podium four times, is set to craft her mark. After winning the UAE Tour for the second consecutive year, she is eager to make a strong statement in Siena.
Puck Pieterse, known for her cyclo-cross prowess, is also in strong form following impressive performances in previous seasons. Lastly, Magdeleine Vallieres, who recently claimed the World Champion title, will look to leverage her recent momentum in this spring classic.
As the race approaches, the anticipation builds. With a blend of seasoned champions and rising stars, the 2026 Strade Bianche Women is poised to deliver a captivating display of cycling prowess. Fans will be watching closely to see if Vollering can clinch her third victory or if one of her rivals will rise to the occasion. The stakes are high, and the outcome remains uncertain.
What are your thoughts on the upcoming race? Who do you reckon will take the win? Share your predictions and insights in the comments below!
