Norwegian Star Sigrid Haugset Claims Stage 3 Victory and Yellow Jersey in Tour de France Femmes 2026

On August 3, 2026, the third stage of the Tour de France Femmes, spanning 157 kilometers from Geneva to Poligny through the challenging Jura mountains, witnessed a remarkable solo victory by Norway's Sigrid Haugset. Riding for UNO-X Mobility, the 27-year-old clinched her second professional win by breaking away during the Savine climb, riding alone for 88 kilometers to secure the stage and take the prestigious yellow jersey.

Haugset finished 1 minute and 24 seconds ahead of Belgian Lotte Kopecky, who mounted a strong solo chase effort, describing it as one of her longest attempts but was ultimately overtaken by cramps and high temperatures. Kopecky acknowledged Haugset's dominance, highlighting the physical difficulties of racing solo under intense heat.

Notable contenders, including French cyclist Pauline Ferrand-Prévot and Dutch rider Demi Vollering, finished nearly three minutes behind Haugset, indicating significant time gaps early in the race.

The Jura region, hosting the stage finish in Poligny, celebrated the spotlight on women's cycling, emphasizing local commitment to fostering female sports with 43% of licensed athletes in the area being women. Local favorite Évita Muzic, competing in her fifth Tour de France Femmes, was among prominent riders showcasing the event’s regional impact.

Looking ahead, the fourth stage features a decisive 21-kilometer time trial between Gevrey-Chambertin and Dijon on August 4, expected to shake up the general classification before the final stage in Nice on August 9.