Vuelta Femenina: Anna van der Breggen routs rivals on steep slopes of Les Praeres for stage 6 victory and moves into GC lead

Anna van der Breggen delivered a dominant performance on Stage 6 of the Vuelta Femenina, conquering the steep slopes of Les Praeres to claim a resounding victory. The SD Worx-Protime rider not only took the stage win but also seized the overall General Classification lead, demonstrating her formidable climbing prowess. Spain's Paula Blasi impressed with a strong second-place finish, while Marion Bunel secured third as the peloton fractured dramatically on the brutal ascent.

This victory marks a significant statement from van der Breggen, who, despite her storied career including Olympic gold and multiple world titles, has been in a more supportive role since her return to racing. Her decisive move on Les Praeres, a climb notorious for its gradients, signals a clear intent for the overall title and underscores SD Worx-Protime's continued dominance in women's cycling. It also reshuffles the GC entirely, setting up a thrilling final two stages as rivals now face a substantial deficit.

Van der Breggen's return to the top step of a major stage race, especially with such authority, serves as a stark reminder that class, like a well-maintained chain, is permanent.