Abu dhabi: Italian rider Elisa Longo Borghini, leader of UAE Team ADQ, today claimed victory in the fourth edition of the UAE Tour Women 2026, sponsored by Abu Dhabi Ports Group. The race is the sole international women’s cycling event in the Middle East recognized by the International Cycling Union (UCI) and was organized by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE Tour Women 2026 concluded after four stages, covering a total distance of 533 kilometers, with participation from 120 riders representing 20 professional teams. Borghini secured a significant win in the final mountain stage, which commenced at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, traversed key landmarks in the Al Ain region, and concluded at Jebel Hafeet. This victory marked her third overall win following her successes in the 2023 and 2025 editions.
Borghini completed the 156-kilometer final stage in 4 hours, 13 minutes, and 4 seconds. She topped the general classification with a total time of 13 hours, 6 minutes, and 32 seconds, earning the Red Jersey sponsored by Abu Dhabi Ports Group. Her closest competitors were Monica Trinca Colonel of Liv AlUla Jayco, finishing 16 seconds behind, and Femke de Vries of Team Visma | Lease a Bike, who came third, 17 seconds behind the leader.
In other classifications, Lorena Wiebes of Team SD Worx retained the Green Jersey sponsored by Mubadala with 60 points. Eleonora Ciabocco of Team Picnic PostNL claimed the White Jersey sponsored by Burjeel Holdings, while Sara Luccon of Top Girls Fassa Bortolo won the Black Jersey sponsored by Aldar. Canyon-SRAM zondacrypto of Germany won the Best Team classification with a combined time of 39 hours, 27 minutes, and 24 seconds.
The final stage witnessed the attendance of prominent figures, including Mansoor Bu Osaiba, Chairman of the UAE Cycling Federation, and Dr. Ahmed Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Assistant Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, among others. The winners were crowned by dignitaries such as Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili and Aref Hamad Al Awani.
Aref Hamad Al Awani emphasized the ongoing support from the UAE’s leadership in enhancing the country’s sporting achievements and international reputation. He lauded Borghini’s victory and commended the high level of competition throughout the tour.
Borghini expressed immense satisfaction with her win, highlighting the team’s determination and the personal significance of climbing Jebel Hafeet. She acknowledged the support of her team and coaches, attributing her success to their efforts and her own perseverance despite challenging preparations.