Cycling: Tadej Pogacar won Strade Bianche for the second time in his career. The Slovenian was able to break away 80 kilometers from the finish and complete his impressive solo all the way to the finish line on the Piazza del Campo. In the women's category, world champion Lotte Kopecky lived up to her role as favorite.
Pogacar is off to a perfect start to the season
It was an announcement, almost a threat. Tadej pogacar (UAE) has spoken it and made it true. With a whopping 80 kilometers to go, the Slovenian champion launches his attack in the 18th edition of Strade Bianche - and no one can follow. Before that he left his noble helper Tim Wellens (UAE) pushed the pace so much that the group of favorites was decimated and most of his opponents were therefore without helpers. After 215 kilometers, the two-time tour winner is celebrating in Siena for the second time after 2022, this time Tom's Skujins (Lidl – Trek) from Latvia and the Belgian Maxim van Gils (Lotto – Dstny). Although Tadej Pogacar's performance was absolutely impressive, his confident demeanor also had an impact on the excitement of the race. Since his victory seemed certain well before the finish - and well over an hour before the finish - it was only about second place.
“Nobody can match his power”
Tadej Pogacar has powered ahead with 80km to go! Will he be able to hold out? #cycling #stradebianche pic.twitter.com/upxre1XKNr
- Eurosport (@eurosport) March 2, 2024
Strade Bianche Donne: Kopecky wins confidently
The Strade Bianche Donne has for the second time in her career Lotte Kopeky (SD Worx – Protime). The world champion from Belgium was able to share ten kilometers from the finish together with the Italian champion in the tenth event Elisa Longo Borghini (Lidl – Trek) separate from their companions. On the climb up to Piazza del Campo, she finally left her last remaining opponent standing after 137 kilometers. This means she is celebrating for the second time after 2022. The podium completes Demi Vollering (SD Worx – Protime). The Swiss also presented herself strongly Elise Chabby (Canyon//SRAM Racing), which was rewarded with eighth place.
“Tactically perfect”
Belgium's Lotte Kopecky is victorious in Siena after an incredible attack to end the race #roadcycling #peloton #stradebianche pic.twitter.com/7bmv5kluk1
- Eurosport (@eurosport) March 2, 2024