It genuinely isn't hyperbole to call stage 8 of the 2024 Tour de France Femmes, one of the greatest days of Grand Tour racing of all time. After a thrilling battle with Demi Vollering and Pauliena Rooijakkers however, it was Katarzyna Niewiadoma who emerged as the Maillot Jaune winner.
“That was a real rollercoaster of emotions," admits a visibly emotional Canyon//SRAM Racing leader in her post-stage interview, having survived a long range attack by her rivals and a tense finale on one of cycling's most iconic climbs, Alpe d'Huez.
"On the descent [of the Glandon] I was able to rebuild myself, refresh and I was so lucky to have Lucinda Brand there, so I think we also have to say a big thanks to Lidl–Trek because they did a great job for us," Niewiadoma continues. "On Alpe d’Huez I knew that I just had to pace myself right, so that I could give my best in the last 5 km, so that I could minimise the gap as much as possible."
In the end, just 4 seconds separated Niewiadoma and the 2023 Tour de France Femmes winner Demi Vollering in the general classification, with Rooijakkers making sure all the podium were within 10 seconds.
"To be honest I lost the faith again. In the radio they were screaming so much in the last 2 km and to be honest I went through such a terrible time on this last climb. I hated everything, to then arriving at the finish line and learning that I had won the Tour de France, which is insane!" Niewiadoma concludes. "It is so mind blowing because there are so many people that I am thankful and grateful for, starting with my husband, my family, my whole team, my coach, who put in so much work to prepare me for this, and my friends! This is dedicated to so many people who contributed to the victory!”
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