Vollering slams media after questions about weight and emphasizes setting an example for young riders

In the press conference after the Tour de France Femmes, there were many questions (according to Vollering herself, 80%) about her weight. “Whether I planned to lose more weight. Whether that would be the way to win the Tour de France again. Whether that would be the key to future performances.” After all, Ferrand-Prévot was sharper than ever, and on the climbs she outpaced all her rivals.

That also meant that Vollering came under scrutiny. All those questions and comments about her weight: Vollering is now fed up with it. “I understand—this is sport. People are enthusiastic and have opinions. But let me be clear: I will make every decision in my career, and continue to do so, by putting my health first. Always.”

"The truth is, I'm not built to be the lightest rider in the peloton. And I don't want to force my body to be something it's not. I've been racing at the highest level for years, with a strong, fit, and capable body. We did everything we could to go into the Tour in the best shape possible—for me. Every rider does it their way. This post isn't about comparison: there's more than one road to success.

"I'm incredibly grateful for my body and my height—it's given me many wonderful victories. I don't take that for granted. Because young girls look up to us, they see what we say, and what we don't say, and what we show. That is cheered as ‘the way’ to succeed. What they see sometimes quietly influences them. They may not talk about it or even realize that it is harmful. That is why we—as athletes, teams, and as a sport—have a responsibility."

All the talk about weight and performance creates an unhealthy environment, especially for young riders. "We need to create a safe environment where athletes can ask questions, speak openly, and get the right guidance, especially young, developing riders, because the risk is very real. Because health isn't always visible. Because disordered thinking can grow quietly and remain invisible for a long time."

"Everyone is different. Every athlete needs a different approach. What's important is making the right decision for your health, with the right support. Losing weight is not the ultimate solution. For me, performance is about much more than that. It's about strength. Balance. Good fuel. Feeling mentally strong. And recovering faster than all the other riders. Without that, no number on the scale will make you faster—or happier."