Anna Van der Breggen: Signs of a Resurgent Force in Women’s Cycling
After a surprising return to professional cycling, Anna van der Breggen appears to be hitting peak form just as the spring classics season heats up. A strong showing at the Trofeo Alfredo Binda on Sunday, March 15, 2026, suggests the Dutch rider is poised to challenge for major victories, signaling a potential return to the dominance she displayed before her initial retirement.
A Comeback Story
Van der Breggen’s decision to return to the sport in June 2024 initially shocked the cycling world. A decorated athlete with a palmarès including two road race world championships, an Olympic title, and a record seven wins at La Flèche Wallonne Féminine, her initial retirement in 2021 had seemed final. Her 63 career victories also encompass wins at Liège-Bastogne-Liège Femmes, the Giro d’Italia Internazionale Femminine, the Tour of Flanders, Strade Bianche Donne, and the Amstel Gold Race.
Her first season back in 2025 showed promise, with a stage win at the Vuelta España Femenina and several top-ten finishes in major races. However, she hadn’t quite reached the level of performance that defined her earlier career. The question was whether she could recapture her previous form.
Binda Performance: A Turning Point?
At the Trofeo Alfredo Binda, Van der Breggen demonstrated a clear improvement. She pushed the pace on the climbs, ultimately finishing second to compatriot Karlijn Swinkels (UAE Team ADQ) in a sprint finish. While Swinkels secured her first WorldTour victory, Van der Breggen’s performance was a significant step forward.
“It was a tough finish and everyone was on their last legs,” Van der Breggen explained after the race. She acknowledged Swinkels’ strength, stating, “She’s simply a versatile rider. At no point did I sense I could shake her off.”
The race wasn’t without its challenges. A mid-race crash involving three of her SD Worx Protime teammates disrupted the team’s strategy, forcing Van der Breggen to adapt. Despite this setback, she managed to stay at the front and contend for the win.
Looking Ahead: The Ardennes Classics
Van der Breggen’s upcoming schedule includes the Brabantse Pijl, followed by a block of altitude training to prepare for the Ardennes Classics. Her 2026 spring classics programme includes Strade Bianche, Trofeo Alfredo Binda, Brabantse Pijl, Amstel Gold Race, Flèche Wallonne, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège.
The Dutch rider expressed optimism about her current form, stating, “Personally, I’m leaving on a positive note. I’m happy with my current form.” She believes a more challenging course will play to her strengths, hinting at a potential return to her winning ways in the Ardennes.
Impact of the Team Crash
A significant crash approximately 90km into the Trofeo Alfredo Binda impacted SD Worx Protime, with three riders involved. This forced Van der Breggen to adjust her race strategy, working with riders from UAE Team ADQ after a tiny group broke away on the descent.
Results: Trofeo Alfredo Binda
FAQ
Q: What is Anna van der Breggen’s current team?
A: Team SD Worx – Protime.
Q: Who won the Trofeo Alfredo Binda in 2026?
A: Karlijn Swinkels (UAE Team ADQ).
Q: What races are next for Anna van der Breggen?
A: Brabantse Pijl, followed by a period of altitude training in preparation for the Ardennes Classics.
Q: What are some of Anna van der Breggen’s major career achievements?
A: Two road race world championships, one world TT crown, the Olympic title, and a record seven editions of La Flèche Wallonne Féminine.
Did you know? Anna van der Breggen initially retired in 2021 at the age of 31, citing a loss of enthusiasm for the sport.
Stay tuned for further updates on Anna van der Breggen’s season and her pursuit of more victories in the upcoming races.
