Setmana Ciclista Valenciana Queen Stage cancelled due to strong winds

Stage 3 of the Setmana Ciclista Volta Femenina de la Comunitat Valenciana, the Queen stage, has been cancelled amid safety concerns over forecasts of strong winds in the region.

The third stage from Agost to La Nucía was set to be 128km in length and a pivotal day in the general classification with the category one ascent of Alto de Tudons, and category two Alto de Confrides shortly after, both in the final half of the stage.

“Due to the weather forecast for tomorrow, 14 February, and the orange alert issued by Aemet because of the strong gusts of wind expected across the province of Alicante, stage 3 of the Setmana Ciclista: Volta Femenina de la Comunitat Valenciana, scheduled between Agost and La Nucia, will not take place,” said the race organisers in an official statement. 

The race had already been impacted by the weather, with strong gusts of wind ripping through the start area ahead of the opening stage, which saw the peloton discuss whether it was right to race, with a vote from the riders giving an all-clear to ride.

“This is a collective decision taken in agreement with the teams, riders, safety officials, public and political representatives, the Guardia Civil and the president of the commissaires panel as representatives of the Union Cycliste Internationale," explained the race organisers.

The opening stage of the Vuelta a Murcia on Friday was also impacted by the wind, being reduced from 178.5km to 83.5km in an attempt to avoid the gusts of 90km/h that were reported on certain sections of the route.

Across the 10 editions of the race so far, this stage cancellation is an unprecedented situation for the race organisers, who prioritised the health and safety of the riders.

“It is a very difficult decision, but one we have taken to guarantee the safety of the riders and everyone involved in the race. This will be the first of the 39 stages in the history of our race that cannot be held, but safety is and always will be our priority," read the statement.

The peloton will turn its attention to the fourth and final stage on Sunday, 15 February, where the general classification will be decided. 

The stage features the category two Port de l’Oronet, which could split the race, before a fast run-in to the finish line in Valencia.

“The race will resume on Sunday with stage 4, the final stage, between Sagunt and València," concluded the statement.

The European Champion Demi Vollering (FDJ United-Suez) is the leader of the general classification after soloing to victory on the opening stage. Cat Ferguson (Movistar) sprinted to victory on the second stage, marking the seventh professional victory of the British rider's career.