Demi Vollering wins Belgian opener in a nail-biting sprint duel
Demi Vollering of FDJ-Suez claimed victory in the opening classic of the Belgian women's cycling season. The race unfolded in Ninove, where she outpaced Katarzyna Niewiadoma in a thrilling two-rider sprint. Their late breakaway secured the win ahead of a chasing peloton.
The decisive move came as Vollering and Niewiadoma broke clear of the field. They worked together to hold off the peloton, with Vollering's teammate Franziska Koch setting a strong pace over the steep Muur van Geraardsbergen. Despite Vollering's acceleration on the Bosberg, Niewiadoma stayed on her wheel, forcing a head-to-head sprint.
In the final metres, the two riders raced side by side. Vollering edged ahead, crossing the line just before Niewiadoma. Behind them, a chase group featuring Anna van der Breggen, Lorena Wiebes, and Daniek Hengeveld failed to close the gap.
Looking ahead, Vollering has set her sights on Strade Bianche on March 7, followed by Dwars door Vlaanderen on April 1 and the Tour of Flanders on April 5.
Vollering's win marks a strong start to her season. The victory in Ninove confirms her form ahead of key spring races. Her ability to hold off Niewiadoma in the sprint proved decisive in securing the title.
