European Champion Sprints to Glory, Outpacing Vos and Ruegg in a Monumental Return
SAN REMO, Italy (March 22, 2025) – Dutch sprinting sensation Lorena Wiebes has etched her name in cycling history, claiming a dramatic victory in the newly revived Sanremo Women. The European champion outpaced legendary compatriot Marianne Vos and rising Swiss star Noemi Ruegg in a high-speed sprint finish on the iconic Via Roma, marking a landmark moment for women’s cycling.
The 156-kilometer race, a long-awaited addition to the women’s calendar, saw an explosive finale after Italian champion Elisa Longo Borghini launched a daring solo attack with just 2km to go. However, it was the strategic brilliance of Wiebes’ SD Worx – Protime team that proved decisive. Reigning world champion and teammate Lotte Kopecky took charge of the chase, neutralizing Longo Borghini’s move and positioning Wiebes perfectly for the final sprint.
A Hard-Fought Battle on the Italian Riviera
From the outset, tension was palpable as the peloton navigated wet roads, leading to an early crash that disrupted the race dynamics. Wiebes’ team maintained a dominant presence at the front, ensuring she remained safe and in contention.
The decisive moments unfolded on the race’s two historic climbs. On the Cipressa, Wiebes showcased her improved climbing ability, staying comfortably among the front-runners. The Poggio, typically a decisive battleground, saw an intense battle for positioning, with Wiebes emerging in the top five riders cresting the summit. As the race thundered toward Sanremo, the scene was set for a dramatic finale.
Despite a valiant late attack by Longo Borghini, Wiebes remained composed, trusting Kopecky to bring the group back together. Marianne Vos, a seasoned finisher, positioned herself for the sprint but found herself unable to match Wiebes’ explosive acceleration. Ruegg, in a breakthrough performance, secured third place, delivering a career-defining result.
Final Standings:
- Lorena Wiebes (Team SD Worx – Protime) – 156km in 3h43’32” (41.872 km/h)
- Marianne Vos (Team Visma | Lease a Bike) – s.t.
- Noemi Ruegg (EF Education – Oatly) – s.t.
- Pauline Ferrand-Prévot (Team Visma | Lease a Bike) – s.t.
- Demi Vollering (FDJ-Suez) – s.t.
Champion’s Reflections: Wiebes on Her Monumental Triumph
Speaking moments after her historic victory, Wiebes expressed her joy and gratitude: “It’s hard to realize that I have won Sanremo Women, but I’m very grateful to my team for their incredible work. We had different scenarios planned for the finale, but I felt great on the Cipressa and the Poggio. When Elisa attacked, I remained confident—Lotte is an amazing teammate, and she delivered me perfectly. Marianne Vos surprised me a little in the sprint, but I had enough to win. This is one of the biggest victories of my career.”
Wiebes also emphasized the significance of the race for women’s cycling: “The level of the peloton is rising every year. There are more strong riders than ever, which makes the racing more dynamic. It’s amazing that Sanremo Women is back—it’s already one of the most important races on our calendar.”
Podium Reflections: Vos and Ruegg Celebrate Their Achievements
Marianne Vos, a veteran of the sport, acknowledged the challenge of facing Wiebes in a head-to-head sprint. “It was hard to predict how the race would unfold. I’m happy with how we raced as a team and how I reached the final. Against Lorena, you know it’s going to be tough, but we gave it our all. Sanremo Women is a beautiful race, and I’m excited for many more editions to come.”
For Noemi Ruegg, securing third place felt like a victory. “We had a team goal to reach the podium, but I never imagined I’d be standing there. It’s surreal. The Cipressa wasn’t as tough as I expected, and I managed to hold on over the Poggio. After the descent, I followed Lotte Kopecky, which put me in the best possible position. Winning the Tour Down Under earlier this season gave me confidence, and this podium is another step forward.”
A Historic Victory: The Significance of Sanremo Women
Wiebes’ triumph is more than just a personal milestone—it marks a turning point for women’s cycling. This historic edition of Sanremo Women signals a growing recognition of women’s racing, aligning with the prestige of its male counterpart, Milano-Sanremo. The return of this race is seen as a crucial step in the continued evolution of the sport.
With this victory, Wiebes adds her name to an illustrious list of riders who have conquered the Via Roma. Her 98th professional win, and fifth of the season, also makes her the most successful rider in terms of victories among the women’s WorldTour teams this year.
As the sun sets on Sanremo, one thing is certain: Lorena Wiebes has not only won a race—she has paved the way for a new era of women’s cycling.
