Finishing atop the Angliru, is this the toughest Vuelta Femenina yet? Analysing the key stages where the race will be won and lost

CyclingNews has published its stage analysis for the upcoming Vuelta Femenina, highlighting three pivotal stages, including the formidable Angliru summit finish. This early deep dive into the parcours suggests organisers are aiming for a particularly challenging edition of the first women's Grand Tour of the season, with the Angliru finale poised to be a decisive moment for general classification contenders.

This focus on the Angliru marks a significant escalation in the women's peloton's Grand Tour challenges, mirroring the men's race's most iconic and brutal climbs. Coming after a successful, albeit controversial, debut for the women's Vuelta as a Grand Tour last year, the inclusion of such a legendary ascent signals a clear intent from organisers to elevate the race's profile and demand the absolute best from its participants, potentially reshaping GC strategies entirely.

Putting the Angliru in a women's Grand Tour is a bold move, ensuring this Vuelta Femenina will be remembered, for better or worse, as a true test of endurance and climbing prowess.