The Volta a Catalunya, a prestigious event in the cycling calendar, is set to introduce a women’s multi-stage race from 7th to 9th June 2024. This development marks a significant progression from the one-day reVolta race to a three-day event, showcasing some of the world’s best female cyclists. The women’s Volta a Catalunya already boasts a notable history as a one-day race, with victories by renowned cyclists like Claire Steels in 2023, Clara Koppenburg, Katrine Aalerud, and Lauren Stephens. The 2024 edition is set to add a new chapter to its burgeoning legacy.
Supported by the Generalitat de Catalunya through Esportcat, the inaugural women’s edition of the Volta a Catalunya will be listed at the UCI 2.1 category, inviting up to seven UCI Women’s World Tour teams, UCI Women’s Continental Teams, and national teams like the Catalan Massi-Tactic. The event promises a diverse and challenging route across Catalonia, with one stage featuring a mountain finish. Positioned conveniently before major races like the Giro Donne or the Tour de France Femmes, the Volta a Catalunya is expected to attract top-class cyclists.
Laura Vilagrà Pons, the Catalan government’s spokesperson, described the upgrade of the women’s race as “great news for Catalan cycling and women’s sports”. She emphasised the commitment to female sports in this legislative term and the role of the Volta a Catalunya Femina in promoting women’s empowerment in cycling.
Rubèn Peris, president of the Volta Ciclista a Catalunya A.E., expressed excitement about the expansion to a three-day event. He highlighted the positive response from the Government of Catalonia, interested towns, sponsors, and teams. Several UCI Women’s World Tour teams have already expressed interest in participating, reflecting the race’s growing appeal.
Patrícia Ortega, the sports director of the race and member of the board of the entity, shared her pleasure in seeing the event grow. She anticipates that the race will be a spectacle, featuring some of the best female cyclists competing across Catalonia’s diverse landscapes.
As with the men’s race, the Generalitat de Catalunya’s Secretary General of Sport and Physical Activity will be the main sponsor, ensuring live television coverage. The event has evolved from a one-day race to a three-stage competition, reflecting the growing stature of women’s cycling.
The final route and participating towns will be announced soon, with one stage confirmed to have a mountain finish.
