Demi Vollering claims Mont Royal record and funds teammates’ bonus from her own pocket

A spontaneous training session in Montreal saw Demi Vollering, accompanied by Karlijn Swinkels, Femke de Vries and Puck Pieterse, attack the 1.7-kilometre Mont Royal climb at high speed, with Vollering finishing in 4 minutes 6 seconds and earning the “Queen of the Mountain” title. Coach Laurens ten Dam noted the ride’s intensity and the strong team spirit it reflected, emphasizing the clear hierarchy that now places Vollering as the undisputed leader of the Dutch women’s squad.

After a season that included victories in the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia and other classics, the team has selected her as the sole captain for the World Championships, leaving veteran riders like Anna van den Breggen and Marianne Vos out due to health and form. Each of the six riders supporting Vollering will receive a bonus paid directly by her, a gesture meant to reinforce cohesion. Former rider Ellen van Dijk recalled earlier Dutch teams that faltered when multiple leaders competed for personal chances, a problem one outlet setup aims to avoid. The new strategy, refined since Ten Dam’s appointment, seeks to prevent the tactical errors that cost the Netherlands a world title in Zurich 2024.