Giro Women 2026 is telling us a new, thrilling chapter of a unique story: the relationship between Anna van der Breggen and Demi Vollering.

The first encounter dates back to the 2016 Omloop van de IJsseldelta, won by van der Breggen. However, it is from 2019 onwards that their paths truly begin to intertwine, with a rising Vollering finding herself up against AvdB. In the Ardennes, for example, Vollering finished 5th in Flèche Wallonne won by her compatriot, before finishing ahead of her at LBL, taking third place.

In the autumn of 2020, Anna unexpectedly announced her retirement from cycling at the end of 2021. Anticipating this transition, SD Worx signed Vollering. In her first season with the team, Demi immediately proved decisive as a luxury domestique, playing a key role in numerous victories for her leader. SD Worx achieved a remarkable podium sweep at Giro d’Italia, with van der Breggen taking the victory (her 4th triumph) and Vollering finishing third. But Vollering also found space for herself: emblematic in this sense was LBL, where van der Breggen worked in support of Vollering, who went on to take the victory. A true passing of the torch.

After her retirement, van der Breggen remained at SD Worx as Sports Director. Guided from the team car by her former teammate, Vollering went on to achieve some of the most prestigious victories of her career, including the Ardennes Triple and the 2023 Tour de France.

Then, at the end of 2024, another twist arrives: van der Breggen announces her return to competition, while Vollering transfers to FDJ-SUEZ. Allies turned rivals. Strade Bianche 2025 featured a thrilling duel decided on the final wall, while at La Vuelta, revived SD Worx leader finished 3rd in the GT won by Vollering.

The climax of this renewed rivalry, however, is unfolding right now at Giro d'Italia, where a resurgent AvdB, fresh off her runner-up finish at La Vuelta, dominated the Nevegal ITT and, heading into tomorrow's queen stage, holds a one-minute lead over Vollering! All we can do now is wait: the show on Finestre is about to begin!