Published on : 08/05/2026
The fifth stage of the Tour de France Femmes marked a turning point in the race for the general classification. On a demanding course, the top favorites decided to step up the pace, setting a sustained rhythm that quickly stretched out the peloton.
Under these conditions, the Cofidis riders had to work hard to stay in contact. The day took a turn for the worse when Ema Comte was involved in a crash on a narrow stretch of road. Despite the team’s efforts, it proved difficult to reposition her in a race moving at full speed.
Still driven by the desire to play an active role in the race, Julie Bego took a chance by launching an attack. Unfortunately, this move wasn’t enough to open a gap against a particularly vigilant peloton.
The reaction
Mélanie Briot : “It was a tough day. The favorites in the general classification had decided to dictate the pace. For us, of course, that made things more complicated. Ema Comte was caught up in a crash on narrow roads. Behind her, it was difficult to get back into position. Julie Bego tried to break away but wasn’t able to make the break.”