Alessia Vigilia delivered a commendable performance during stage 1 of the Santos Women’s Tour Down Under on Saturday, though she ultimately finished in 47th place. The 26-year-old Italian rider, competing for her new team UNO-X Mobility, attempted a nearly solo effort over the challenging 137.4-kilometre course, but was overtaken in the final stretch.
Vigilia was in a strong position as the race approached its conclusion, maintaining a lead of approximately 30 seconds with just 4 kilometres to go. However, the efforts of the sprinter teams and a few late crashes in the peloton complicated her chances of securing a victory. Despite the mounting pressure, she focused on the finish line, fueled by encouragement from her team via radio.
“I was just focused on reaching the finish line but, yeah, I was really over my limit,” Vigilia stated in a post-race interview with Cyclingnews. “I really tried but it was not enough for today.” As she approached the final 200 metres, her lead diminished as competitors surged forward. Ultimately, Ally Wollaston from FDJ-United SUEZ took the win, leaving Vigilia to cross the line as the sprint unfolded around her.
Vigilia’s 47th-place finish does not accurately reflect her significant effort. “I was super excited for my first race with my new kit and my new team,” she noted. “I wanted to show that we worked hard during the winter and repay all the belief they have had in me since the start of the season.” While aggressive racing was part of her strategy, she admitted that a nearly 100-kilometre solo effort was not the original plan.
This event marked more than just a new beginning for Vigilia; it was her first race with UNO-X Mobility after two seasons with FDJ-SUEZ and her debut at the Australian season-opening event. Though she did not achieve the immediate victory she hoped for, her strong performance suggests potential for future stages. “It’s really nice to feel that we work well,” she said. “And also I think it’s hard to arrive here and adapt to jet lag and heat so this was really a good sign that we are prepared, and we will show it again.”
The race continues with a 130.7-kilometre stage from Magill to Paracombe on Sunday, followed by a demanding 126.5-kilometre stage to Campbelltown, which will feature two ascents of the challenging Corkscrew Road. “I think both the stages are really open and there are some cards where the breakaway can go, or something can happen,” Vigilia remarked. “So we will keep our eyes open, also as a team, and we will be sure to ride aggressively and show our jersey.”
As the 2026 season unfolds in Australia, Vigilia’s determination and resilience could pave the way for future successes in the competition.