Canadian cyclist Magdeleine Vallieres emerged victorious in the women’s elite road race at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships held in Kigali, Rwanda. Representing the U.S.-based EF Education-Oatly team, the 24-year-old rider from Sherbrooke, Quebec, made a decisive move on the final climb of the Kigali circuit from a breakaway group to secure her historic win.
Vallieres made history as the first Canadian to claim an elite road race world title, expressing her elation by stating, “It was my dream to win it, and it’s true now. It’s crazy.” She completed the challenging 164.6-kilometer course in four hours, 34 minutes, and 48 seconds, with New Zealand’s Niamh Fisher-Black finishing second, 23 seconds behind, and Spain’s Mavi Garcia coming in third, four seconds further back.
The Canadian rider credited her team, including compatriot Alison Jackson, for their support, emphasizing the belief they had in her. Vallieres highlighted her preparation and form, noting that she was determined to give her best effort without any regrets during the race.
Vallieres, who had undergone altitude training with her team before the event, strategically joined a late-race breakaway and set a demanding pace. Sensing the right moment at the base of the final climb, she made her decisive move, acknowledging the strength of her competitors and her commitment to the breakaway effort.
Reflecting on her victory, Vallieres expressed disbelief and joy, emphasizing the significance of achieving this milestone ahead of the upcoming world championships in Montreal. She shared her long-held dream of winning such a prestigious title, underscoring the fulfillment of her aspirations on the global stage.
