Stage 2 of the Vuelta a Burgos Feminas was expected to be a straightforward day for the sprinters – but cycling rarely goes according to script. The 122 km route from Villalba de Duero to Roa de Duero turned into a thrilling and decisive battle, full of drama, wind, and tactical brilliance.
After a few early breakaway attempts were neutralized, the race ignited with around 100 km to go. A crash disrupted the peloton, leaving several riders behind – including World Champion Lotte Kopecky. UAE Team ADQ immediately sensed the opportunity. With Elisa Longo Borghini supported by Brodie Chapman, Paula Blasi, and Silvia Persico, the team pushed hard at the front, taking full advantage of the crosswinds.
Their effort created a significant selection, and with the support of Movistar Team, the lead group opened up a decisive gap – one that could prove crucial in the General Classification.
On the final climb, though not particularly steep, Longo Borghini launched an attack to test her rivals. Eventually, Mie Bjørndal Ottestad (Uno-X Mobility) and Marlen Reusser (Movistar Team) broke away and reached the finish together, with Ottestad taking both the stage win and the overall leader’s jersey.
Reusser gained valuable time in the GC, while Elisa Longo Borghini – now fifth overall, 22 seconds back – pulled back nearly a minute and a half on Kopecky, who was caught behind after the crash.
What was meant to be a routine stage turned into a dramatic showdown, setting the tone for an exciting weekend. Tomorrow, Stage 3 finishes atop the tough climb of Picón Blanco, followed by a short but potentially decisive individual time trial on Sunday.
(ph. @gettysport)
