Pauline Ferrand-Prévot Triumphs in Tour de France Femmes 2023

Pauline Ferrand-Prévot made history on Sunday by winning the Tour de France Femmes, becoming the first French rider to claim victory in the event since 1989. Her triumph marks a significant milestone in French cycling, with the last male winner being Bernard Hinault in 1985 and the last female champion Jeannie Longo in 1989.

Ferrand-Prévot’s journey to this prestigious title began after she transitioned from a successful mountain biking career, where she secured an Olympic championship in Paris. Returning to road cycling, she set her sights on winning the Tour de France Femmes within three years, a goal she achieved in just one season.

Her victory was solidified during the final stage, where she crossed the finish line adorned in the yellow jersey. This moment was not only a personal achievement but also a poignant end to a decades-long wait for a French champion in this iconic race. In the general classification, Ferrand-Prévot finished three minutes and 42 seconds ahead of Demi Vollering, who placed second, and four minutes and nine seconds ahead of defending champion Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney.

Ferrand-Prévot took control of the race on the penultimate stage, showcasing her strength on the Col de la Madeleine, a challenging climb measuring 18.6 km. She distanced herself from her competitors, gaining over three minutes on both Niewiadoma-Phinney and Vollering. Although Sarah Gigante initiated an early attack on that climb, Ferrand-Prévot ultimately overtook her, finishing just one minute and 45 seconds ahead of Gigante, which solidified her substantial lead in the overall standings.

The final stage presented its own challenges for Ferrand-Prévot. Early on, she fell behind her rivals on the valley roads before the first ascent, prompting her team to work diligently to maintain her lead. Nevertheless, she demonstrated her resilience by launching a solo attack with just six kilometers remaining, ultimately crossing the finish line alone.

This victory not only highlights Ferrand-Prévot’s remarkable capabilities as a cyclist but also revitalizes national pride in a sport that has long been intertwined with French culture. Her achievement is a testament to her dedication and the enduring spirit of French cycling, inspiring a new generation of athletes and fans alike.