In a important convert of events, Lidl-Trek’s Elisa Longo Borghini, new from her victory at the Tour of Flanders, has decided to forego the demanding Paris-Roubaix Femmes. Alternatively, the Italian champion will concentration her attempts on the forthcoming Ardennes Classics: Amstel Gold Race, Flèche Wallonne, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. This selection arrives irrespective of earlier discussions about the probability of Longo Borghini stepping in for the wounded Lizzie Deignan (a further former Roubaix winner) at the Hell of the North right after the Brit broke her arm in Flanders.
Lidl-Trek clarified their stance, stating, “Paris-Roubaix was not part of her agenda for 2024, and in mild of her season’s goals, it’s been decided to manage the original system.” This shift demonstrates the group’s technique and Longo Borghini’s aspirations for the time, emphasising the great importance of keeping true to preliminary targets amidst the dynamic character of skilled biking.
Longo Borghini has been on an extraordinary run this period, securing podium finishes at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Strade Bianche, along with a victory at the Trofeo Oro in Euro, and a commendable sixth location at Dwars door Vlaanderen. Her triumph at the Tour of Flanders marked her second earn at the iconic race, the place she out-sprinted Kasia Niewiadoma and teammate Shirin van Anrooij to declare the title.
The Italian rider shared a heartfelt minute with the push article-victory, dedicating her effectiveness to her coach, Paolo Slongo. She expressed gratitude for his support in supporting her rebuild immediately after a hard year marked by disease and setbacks. This victory not only underscored her resilience but also highlighted her strategic concentration on particular period goals.
Inspite of the anticipation of Longo Borghini most likely racing at Paris-Roubaix Femmes, next her statement last month about aiming for a next title, the focus now shifts to the Ardennes. Her planning is already underway in Italy, signalling her motivation to excelling in the hillier classics.
Longo Borghini’s absence from Paris-Roubaix Femmes, particularly immediately after her 2022 victory, may well come as a disappointment to enthusiasts and the race organisation. Even so, it underscores the conclusions athletes and teams have to make to reach their broader targets within the biking calendar. As the Ardennes Classics strategy, all eyes will be on Longo Borghini and her pursuit of further more results in the hilly terrain of the jap area of Belgium.
