Vittoria Guazzini of FDJ-SUEZ has claimed victory in the opening stage of the Tour Féminin International des Pyrénées. The young Italian rider demonstrated her sprinting strength on the 129-kilometre route between Goudon and Lourdes, securing her second win of the season.
Recently finishing fourth and third in sprints at the Volta a Catalunya Femenina, Guazzini was the fastest in the decisive group of thirteen that contested the finish. Australia’s Josie Talbot finished second, with Marcela Prieto taking third place.
The race saw intense early action, with Cofidis prominent among the lead riders. Morgane Coston initiated an early move, which was only neutralised around 12 kilometres from the finish. The rolling terrain and brisk pace fragmented the peloton, leaving a leading group of about two dozen riders in the final hour. This allowed multiple late breakaways to form.
With three kilometres remaining, a trio of riders, including Prieto, attempted to break away. However, Guazzini launched a long sprint, passing Prieto and comfortably holding off Talbot for the win. Reflecting on her victory, Guazzini said, “More than a sprint, it was a progression on a slight climb that left no chance to the few rivals remaining in the leading group.”
The stage featured a dynamic finish full of ups and downs, ultimately narrowing down to a small group of thirteen riders vying for the win. Giada Borghesi was another notable finisher, coming in seventh and crossing the line with the lead group.
This win not only marked Guazzini’s second of the year – her first being at the cobbled Classic of Le Samyn des Dames in March – but also earned her the leader’s jersey in the general classification.
The lively terrain and aggressive tactics throughout the stage significantly shaped the race’s outcome, with late breakaways proving crucial in the final kilometres.
2024 Tour Féminin International des Pyrénées Stage 1 result
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