“My victory today was for all the people who struggle with their mental health issues” – Demi Vollering delivers powerful message after La Vuelta Femenina stage 5 victory

Demi Vollering delivered one of the finest wins of her career today on stage 5 of La Vuelta Femenina, crossing the line with raw emotion and a deeper message behind her performance.

It was a result built on strength and incredible endurance that we now expect from her, but this win had more of a profound sense of purpose. Moments after sealing the stage victory, Vollering opened up in an emotional interview about the struggles surrounding her off the bike.

"The last few days have been tough for me. Someone close to me is going through a very difficult time mentally. I see too many young people struggling mentally in my environment."

Despite the turmoil, Vollering channelled her focus into the race, determined to make the most of the strength she did have, not just physically, but mentally.

"Today I did everything I could because I know that mentally I am very strong. My mentality allows me to win beautiful races, but for some people the brain is a little too strong in its own way."

Her words highlighted not only the immense challenge that elite athletes face, but also the importance of recognising the often unseen battles that so many people endure.

"They struggle so much with mental health and suffer so much. It's still such an underexposed problem in this world, so my victory today was for all the people who struggle with their mental health issues," Vollering concluded, her voice filled with emotion.