Surprise parents' visit inspires new leader in Tour de France Femmes

Polish cyclist Katarzyna Niewiadoma-Phinney took an unexpected lead in the Tour de France Femmes, surging ahead during a grueling climb up Mont Ventoux to claim the seventh stage and the overall lead from the 2024 champion Marlen Reusser. The 2024 winner had never previously won a stage in the race, but her sudden victory marks a new chapter in her career. With only two stages remaining, Niewiadoma-Phinney now leads the 2023 champion by 15 seconds and Reusser by 39 seconds.

In her emotional victory speech, Niewiadoma-Phinney expressed her gratitude to her parents, who attended the race without prior knowledge. She had surprised them by the roadside during the ascent, feeling compelled to perform well to make them proud. Despite the exhaustion and fatigue, Niewiadoma-Phinney held on to her position, lifting her arms in triumph upon crossing the finish line. She emphasized that she does not chase victories for their own sake, but rather for the feeling of accomplishment they bring.

Reusser and Vollering struggled to keep pace with the new leader, ultimately finishing the stage in fourth place. The eighth stage, a 172km flat route in Nice, will conclude the Tour de France Femmes after a final mountain stage on Sunday night.