Dominika Wlodarczyk delivered a 32-kilometre solo attack to win the Women’s Cycling Grand Prix Region Stuttgart, extending UAE Team L’IMAD’s winning streak at the race to three consecutive editions.
The Polish champion made her decisive move with 32 kilometres remaining in the 134.7-kilometre race. Once clear, she built an advantage of up to 1 minute 20 seconds and held off the chasing group all the way to the finish in Tamm.
UAE Team L’IMAD also placed three riders inside the top eight. Eleonora Gasparrini finished fifth, while Karlijn Swinkels took eighth.
The victory continued the team’s dominance at the event. Gasparrini won the previous two editions, meaning UAE Team L’IMAD has now claimed the race three years in a row.
Wlodarczyk attacks with 32km remaining
Several attacks animated the opening phase before the race began to split. Eventually, a reduced group formed containing many of the main contenders.
With 32 kilometres remaining, Wlodarczyk spotted an opportunity. She attacked during a moment of hesitation in the group and quickly opened a gap.
Her advantage continued to grow, eventually reaching 1’20” over the chasers.
Behind, UAE Team L’IMAD had both Gasparrini and Swinkels in the chasing group. Their presence allowed the team to control the situation while Wlodarczyk continued her solo effort at the front.
Time-trial strength drives solo effort
During the penultimate lap, FDJ-SUEZ increased the pace in an attempt to reduce the chasing group, which still contained several strong sprinters.
However, Wlodarczyk continued to push at maximum pace. The Polish rider used the time-trialling ability that has also made her a national champion in the discipline to protect her advantage.
At the start of the final lap, she crossed the finish line with 1’05” in hand over the main chasing group.
The pressure increased again on the final climbs. Liane Lippert (Movistar Team) launched a strong acceleration behind, but Gasparrini responded and remained with the front group.
Swinkels also managed to rejoin the group as UAE Team L’IMAD maintained two riders among the chasers.
Wlodarczyk, meanwhile, continued alone at the front.
UAE Team L’IMAD seals third consecutive victory
The chasing group could not close the remaining gap, allowing Wlodarczyk to complete her long-range move and celebrate a solo victory in Tamm.
Her win also extended an impressive run for UAE Team L’IMAD at the Women’s Cycling Grand Prix Region Stuttgart.
Gasparrini had won each of the previous two editions. Wlodarczyk’s victory therefore gives the team a third consecutive win, with Gasparrini adding fifth place this year and Swinkels finishing eighth.
For Wlodarczyk, the result also came on her first appearance at the race and shortly before she travels to Canada for the World Championships.
Wlodarczyk looks ahead to World Championships
Reflecting on the race, Wlodarczyk said the strength of the UAE Team L’IMAD line-up gave the riders several tactical options.
“I slept well last night and felt good this morning. We had a very strong team here and, with Eleonora having won this race in the last two years, we were very confident coming into the race. It was a very lively race and, in the end, I really enjoyed it. We knew we had several options, so I decided to try a long-range attack and surprise the sprinters. When I saw that I had managed to build a good gap, in the finale I just focused on pushing as hard as possible all the way to the finish.
“It was my first time racing here. It is a really beautiful race and I am very happy to have won.
“There won’t be much time to celebrate now. I will celebrate a little with the team and then with my family once I am back home. In a few days, I will leave for the World Championships in Canada.”
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