Published on : 07/01/2026
The 2026 Volta a Portugal Feminina got underway this Wednesday with a 106.6 km opening stage from Amadora to Vila Franca de Xira. On a fast but demanding course, featuring several climbs and descents, the race promised to be open and difficult to control.
In the end, the day’s scenario favored the breakaway riders. Two riders went clear and managed to stay ahead of the peloton for a long time, building an advantage of up to one minute. Behind them, the gap gradually came down to just 22 seconds with 10 kilometers remaining.
On the final climb in Vila Franca de Xira, one of the two breakaway riders managed to go clear and take a solo victory. Behind, the peloton sprinted for the remaining top positions.
Cofidis placed two riders in the top 10. Victoire Berteau finished 5th, just ahead of Nadia Quagliotto in 7th.
Reaction:
Gaëtan Lemoine, sports director:
“First stage in Portugal, with Victoire Berteau finishing 5th and Nadia Quagliotto 7th. The breakaway made it to the finish today, as nobody really took control of the peloton. On our side, we preferred to save energy for the days ahead.
Still, we saw that Victoire and Nadia were in contention when the race became tougher. There are other finishes that should suit us. We are in a good position, and the week is still long. Our goal remains to fight for stage wins and the overall classification.”