A Škoda Green Jersey Spectacular
First introduced at the men’s edition in 1953 to commemorate the Tour de France’s 50th anniversary, the Green Jersey, known as the maillot vert, is awarded daily to the leader of the Points Classification. Riders accumulate points at intermediate sprints during each stage and again at the finish line. Traditionally adorned in vibrant green, this year’s jersey will feature a darker shade with stylish mint green accents on the sleeves, thanks to its presenting sponsor, Škoda.
As described by ASO, the race route showcases flat stages, such as the one leading into Clermont-Ferrand and the stages into Montignac-Lascaux, Albi, and Blagnac. Hilly routes are interspersed between these flat stages, providing ample opportunities for sprinters to shine. The penultimate stage presents the gruelling challenge of Tourmalet, while the concluding stage in Pau offers an intense time trial to determine the ultimate victor.
The contest for the Škoda Green Jersey promises to be a captivating spectacle throughout the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. So, as we look forward to seeing the action get underway, let’s explore some of the key contenders poised to leave their mark on this year’s race.
Marianne Vos
Marianne Vos, representing Jumbo-Visma, returns to defend her green jersey. Despite a relatively modest performance at the Giro Donne, Vos is expected to unleash her full potential at this race. It’s possible that she strategically used the Giro Donne as a tune-up for the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, carefully conserving her energy for this prestigious event. While not a primary contender for the overall victory, Vos’s formidable sprinting abilities make her a force to be reckoned with. Alongside riders like Van Vleuten, Vos stands out as one of the brightest stars and most skilled competitors in women’s professional cycling.
Lorena Wiebes
Lorena Wiebes of SD Worx is another notable rider to keep an eye on. Like Vos, Wiebes may not be among the top contenders for the overall win, but she possesses exceptional sprinting prowess and a track record of securing stage victories. Having left the Giro Donne early to focus on Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, Wiebes has already showcased her top form by triumphing in a stage of the former race. Expect her to vie for stage wins while also providing crucial support to her teammate Vollering.
Lotte Kopecky
Lotte Kopecky, racing for Team DSM-Firmenich, is a formidable contender in her own right. Having recently secured her fourth consecutive victory at the Baloise Women’s Tour, Kopecky has been on an impressive winning streak. With her relentless determination and well-rounded skills, she will undoubtedly strive for her shot at the Škoda Green Jersey at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift.
Elisa Balsamo
Elisa Balsamo of Lidl-Trek demonstrates immense resilience and determination. Despite suffering a broken jaw in a crash during the RideLondon event in May, she has made an incredible recovery and is poised to compete in this year’s Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. While her return to racing is contingent on a final decision closer to the event, Balsamo views the Tour as a significant target for her comeback. Her tenacity and unwavering spirit certainly make her a compelling contender.
Maike van der Duin
Maike van der Duin of Canyon-SRAM Racing, who participated in last year’s edition, eagerly anticipates the upcoming race. After conducting a thorough reconnaissance of the course in June, she and her team have diligently prepared for the challenges ahead. With rigorous training at altitude and intense competitions leading up to the Tour de France Femmes avec Swift, van der Duin is determined to perform at her best. The team’s aggressive racing style and commitment to creating opportunities could make them a formidable force throughout the competition.
Ruby Roseman-Gannon
Ruby Roseman-Gannon of Team Jayco AlUla has already made her mark in the cycling world, impressing with victories in various races, including the Bay Crits, the Australian Criterium Championships, and the Santos Festival of Cycling. With a promising future ahead, Roseman-Gannon’s all-around abilities make her an exciting rider to watch, and we have a feeling she might pull off a few surprises at this year’s TdFF.
Chiara Consonni
Chiara Consonni, representing UAE Team ADQ, has demonstrated her sprinting prowess with a victory on the final stage of the Giro d’Italia Donne. As Annemiek van Vleuten secured the overall win, Consonni emerged as the fastest in a bunch sprint. Her speed and tactical acumen make her a contender to watch closely for the Green Jersey contest.
With an impressive array of riders competing for the coveted Škoda Green Jersey, the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift promises thrilling battles and captivating displays of speed. As the cyclists navigate the challenging stages and pursue victory, we have no doubt the spirit of competition will be palpable. Stay tuned for plenty of coverage from this momentous event showcasing the best of women’s cycling!
