Women's Tour starts in Santa Susanna with Veenhoven's victory

Dutch cyclist Veenhoven wins the first stage, while Laura Molenaar leads a long breakaway.

Generic image of cyclists in a race in Catalunya.
IA

Generic image of cyclists in a race in Catalunya.

The first stage of the Women's Tour, starting and finishing in Santa Susanna, brought together 133 cyclists over a 91.9-kilometer route.

The inaugural stage saw a notable breakaway featuring Dutch rider Laura Molenaar, France's Constance Valentin, and Chile's Aranza Villalón. Molenaar, with strong ties to Catalunya, managed to build a lead of over two minutes on the peloton.
With 35 kilometers remaining, Catalan cyclist Íngrid Ruiz attempted to bridge the gap to the leader. However, coordinated efforts from teams like FDJ United-Suez and Cofidis successfully neutralized the breakaway shortly before the final stretch.
Molenaar was caught just six kilometers from the finish line. A crash before the final kilometer reduced the group contesting the victory. Ultimately, the young Veenhoven, aged 22, emerged victorious, securing a one-two finish for Team Visma-Lease a Bike alongside Marianne Vos.

"We will keep you informed throughout the weekend on Ràdio Marina about the three stages of the women's Tour."

Ràdio Marina
The next stage, scheduled for Saturday, will be the decisive one of the Tour. The route will connect Sant Vicenç de Castellet with La Molina, covering 130 kilometers and featuring significant climbs such as the Coll de la Batallola and the Coll de la Creueta, both classified as special category.