As the gravel racing world gears up for the 2026 season, one question looms large: Who are the women dominating this gritty, unforgiving terrain right now? To answer this, we’re diving into the Women’s Gravel Power Rankings, a bold attempt to spotlight the athletes setting the pace in one of cycling’s most exhilarating disciplines. But here’s where it gets controversial—ranking riders isn’t just about past glory; it’s about who’s crushing it today. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not a hunt for the GOAT, but a snapshot of current form, with a heavy focus on 2025 results and a nod to late-season momentum.
Before we hit the rankings, let’s talk methodology. If you’re curious about the nitty-gritty, check out the Men’s Gravel Power Rankings for a deep dive. For everyone else, here’s the gist: this isn’t about historical legacy. It’s about who’s firing on all cylinders right now. Think of it as a right-here, right-now leaderboard, with a slight bias toward end-of-season performances. There’s a method to this madness, and it’s all about capturing the current state of the sport.
Now, let’s meet the top 25 women making waves in gravel. Starting at #25, Wendy Oosterwoud might be the least recognizable name on the PAS Racing roster, but don’t let that fool you. She’s a force to be reckoned with. In 2025, she tackled the UCI Gravel World Series with relentless consistency, finishing in the top 10 in 11 out of 12 races, including three podiums and a win. Sure, some of those races lacked the deepest fields, but winning—anywhere, anytime—is no small feat. And let’s not forget her sixth-place finish at The Hills, where she outpaced heavy hitters like Karolina Migoń and Carolin Schiff. That said, her absence from gravel’s biggest stages (DNF at The Traka, DNS at Ranxo) keeps her from climbing higher. Still, she’s a rider to watch.
At #24, Luise Valentin is a name that sparks debate. Remember her dramatic flat tire at The Traka 360? Stuck in a front group with legends like Migoń, Sarah Sturm, and Gee Schreurs, she fought to fix her tire, only to fall out of contention. It was a heart-wrenching moment, but here’s the kicker: we’ll never know what could’ve been. Valentin’s ranking isn’t about that day, though. It’s about her dominant win at the Sahara Gravel Stage Race, where she claimed three of four stages and the overall GC. Yes, she only raced half the season, pivoting to adventure riding later on, but her performance in the desert was undeniable. But here’s the question: Should a single race victory outweigh a season of inconsistency? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments.
Gravel racing is more than just a sport—it’s a test of grit, strategy, and sheer willpower. As we celebrate these athletes, remember: this isn’t just about rankings. It’s about the stories behind the results, the moments that define careers, and the debates that keep us talking. Who do you think deserves a higher spot? Who’s flying under the radar? Let’s keep the conversation going.
