While most of the riders in the overall classification of the Vuelta are resting up from the grand tour, most of the other pros are moving straight on. In Spain, the Itzulia Women 2026 the next tour, but this time only for three days. In the Basque Country, the terrain is more like typical classics terrain, which the riders have to conquer over three consecutive days. Flat is a foreign word here, it is constantly uphill or downhill. But who will this route suit and who can snatch overall victory?
The favourites for Itzulia Women 2026
Last year's winner Demi Vollering will not be at the start of the three-day tour in 2026. This leaves room for a new winner, as Marlen Reusser will also not be at the start. The two have won the Itzulia so far, Reusser once and Vollering three times. However, the two-time stage winner and runner-up from 2025 is back for the Spanish tour. Mischa Bredewold recently won a stage at the Vuelta and should have a good chance of winning the Itzulia. In place of Demi Vollering, Juliette Berthet will start as captain and could pull away from Bredewold, especially on the difficult climbs. These two riders have the best chances of winning in the Basque Country.
Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio is the experienced captain of the AG Insurance - Soudal team, but whether she is the strongest rider is questionable. The 40-year-old rider has recently been unable to achieve any top results, and Justine Ghekiere could take over this role. With Karelijn Swinkels and Dominika Włodarczyk, UAE Team ADQ also has two riders who could be in contention for overall victory. The second rider in particular has already shown how strong she is and comes to the Itzulia well rested.
As true classics specialists, world champion Magdeleine Vallieres and Yara Kastelijn are also in contention for a podium, but their performance would have to be exceptionally strong for the very front. Usoa Ostolaza is currently at least as strong as the two aforementioned riders. The local heroine comes from the start and finish town of the first stage and surprisingly took fourth place at the Vuelta. With her home fans behind her, she could spring a big surprise and is definitely one to keep an eye on.
The Germans with good chances
The German skiers also have good cards. With Liane Lippert, Antonia Niedermaier and Ricarda Bauernfeind, there are three pros who are among the favourites. Niedermaier finished eighth last year and could finish even higher this time. Bauernfeind is probably the biggest question mark, she rode to a good 15th place at the Vuelta, while Lippert is the strongest of the three. However, it probably won't be enough for victory, as other riders will be battling it out for the top places.
Leon Weidner
Working student
