"There are no climbs too tough for women anymore": Tour de France Femmes director looks forward to Mont Ventoux debut

Tour de France Femmes director Marion Rousse has praised the rapid progression of women's cycling, highlighting landmark climbs tackled in consecutive years: Alpe d'Huez in 2024, Col de la Madeleine in 2025, and the upcoming Mont Ventoux in 2026. Rousse cited the women's conquest of the Alto de l'Angliru at the 2025 Vuelta — historically the race's toughest stage — as further evidence of rising standards. Speaking to Marca, she declared there are no longer any climbs considered too difficult for female professional cyclists.