Niewiadoma Claims Mont Ventoux Stage as Vollering and Reusser Regret Tactical Errors in Tour de France Femmes 2026

Katarzyna Niewiadoma secured a significant victory on the 7th stage of the Tour de France Femmes 2026 with a decisive attack near the summit of Mont Ventoux, gaining the yellow jersey. Meanwhile, Demi Vollering and Marlen Reusser expressed disappointment over their mutual focus on each other rather than on pursuing Niewiadoma, which hindered their chances to challenge the leader effectively. Vollering admitted they should have reacted more quickly to Niewiadoma's move and questioned whether it was a tactical hesitation or a genuine inability to close the gap. Reusser acknowledged confusion in their tactics and felt they lost valuable time by watching one another instead of collaborating to neutralize Niewiadoma's lead. Both riders reflected on their performance as subpar compared to Niewiadoma's and regretted losing the yellow jersey. Meanwhile, Pauline Ferrand-Prévot faced challenges on Mont Ventoux as well, finishing 14th overall and trailing Niewiadoma by over 14 minutes. Despite her difficulties, Ferrand-Prévot remained optimistic about her pace during the climb, though this attitude drew criticism from former cyclist Lilian Calmejane, who highlighted her diminished power output compared to the previous year. Ferrand-Prévot will need a strong effort in the final stage around Nice to remain in contention for the overall win. This pivotal stage at Mont Ventoux has reshaped the race dynamics, with Niewiadoma now leading and Vollering and Reusser reflecting on missed collaborative opportunities that could have altered the standings.