"Demi perceives herself as confined within a luxurious prison" - Visma DS Jos van Emden counters FDJ's criticism of the female peloton in the Tour de France Femmes
The 2025 Tour de France Femmes has sparked a heated debate about rider behaviour and respect in the peloton, with concerns over safety, particularly in narrow road sections late in stages. A significant incident that has fuelled this discussion is the crash experienced by Demi Vollering in the final kilometres of Stage 3.
Vollering, the team leader of Fenix-Deceuninck, crashed in a moment when the peloton exited a bridge and the road narrowed approaching Angers. The crash involved several riders and happened at high speed, with Vollering being hit from behind and suffering multiple injuries, including knee pain, glute pain, and back pain according to team medical examination.
The critical perspectives voiced after the crash focus on rider behaviour in the peloton, particularly the lack of adequate braking and respect when the road shrinks and riders are tightly packed. Analysis of the crash video and commentary from cycling observers point to some riders "not using their brakes" and "diving bomb" close to others without leaving safe gaps, which increased risks of wheel contact and crashes.
This has led to calls for more respect and cautious riding, especially from team directors and senior riders in the women's peloton, emphasizing the need to prioritize safety in hectic and technical finish sections.
While specific quotes from team directors or riders directly addressing the crash aftermath and respect issues are not detailed, the coverage and video analysis clearly frame the incident as a flashpoint for ongoing debate about aggressive riding tactics and mutual respect among women cyclists in the peloton. Given Vollering's status as a pre-race favourite and a key figure in women's cycling, her crash and the way it unfolded have intensified these discussions.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, Philip Roodhooft, directeur sportif of Fenix-Deceuninck, responded more nuanced to the situation compared to Jos van Emden, directeur sportif of Visma-Lease a Bike, regarding the crash involving Demi Vollering. Roodhooft expressed that the crash was a racing incident and that he cannot imagine anyone deliberately cutting someone off.
In another development, Ellen van Dijk announced her retirement from road racing due to the impact of crashes on her love for the sport.
As the race continues, calls for respect and safety in the peloton are gaining traction, marking the crash as a significant reference point in shaping future conduct in women's cycling races.
Road cycling is a sport that requires a high degree of competitiveness and technical skill, as demonstrated by the 2025 Tour de France Femmes. The crash experienced by Demi Vollering, a key figure in women's cycling, highlights the need for sportsmanship and respect in the peloton, especially in hectic and technical finish sections.
