Norway's Sigrid Haugset of Uno X Mobility has clinched a remarkable stage three victory at the Tour de France Femmes Avec Zwift. Haugset, 27, launched a 68km solo breakaway, holding off two-time world champion Lotte Kopecky.
Kopecky, 30, of SD Worx-Protime, crossed the finish line one minute 24 seconds behind Haugset after the gruelling 156.5km stage from Geneva to Poligny. The stage, which began with a steep category one ascent, saw many riders dropped, including previous yellow jersey wearer Lorena Wiebes.
Haugset now holds a two-minute and two-second lead in the overall classification over AG Insurance-Soudal's Kim le Court. Despite her current lead, Haugset is expected to lose time once the race reaches the mountains.
Reflecting on her unexpected win, Haugset stated, "I never thought it was possible. It's unreal." She added, "I can't believe she didn't catch me. I was so dizzy at the end - I couldn't lift my arms off the bike."