In an electrifying start to the 2023 Tour de France Femmes, Lotte Kopecky, the winner of this year’s Tour of Flanders, showcased her prowess with a late solo breakaway during the first stage. The 123.8km loop from Clermont-Ferrand witnessed a thrilling showdown, with the peloton vying for position as they approached the challenging Côte de Durtol, situated in the shadow of the Puy de Dôme.
Initially, Kopecky had anticipated a day dominated by sprinters, but as the climb loomed ahead, she seized the opportunity and accelerated ahead, leaving the competition behind. Riding alone at breakneck speeds of nearly 50km/h, she crossed the finish line with a remarkable 45-second lead, catapulting her to the top of the overall standings, closely followed by her teammate Lorena Wiebes.
Kopecky’s success was rooted in a physical reconnaissance of the stage by her team directors, which proved more valuable than a virtual analysis. After assessing the route on the ground, she recognized the chance to capitalize on the climb and executed her strategy with precision.
Speaking of her decisive attack, Kopecky revealed, “I had the feeling that I had something left. I just went and I thought: probably somebody will follow, but nobody could. Once I was at the top, it was mostly downhill or slightly dragging downhill. I knew if I kept my power, they would not catch me.”
Her team, SD Worx, has emerged as a dominant force in women’s cycling, bolstered by a talented roster of riders. With two strategies in mind for the stage, Kopecky’s successful solo breakaway perfectly complemented the team’s aspirations for the yellow jersey. Yet, their main contender for the ultimate victory in Pau remains Demi Vollering, last year’s runner-up in the Tour de France Femmes.
As the peloton heads towards the Pyrenees for the upcoming stages, Kopecky acknowledges the bigger picture, stating, “I’m happy I took this opportunity, but I’m clear that the biggest goal for the team is the General Classification with Demi, whatever needs to be done. If we have to sacrifice the yellow jersey, then we will do so.”
While some possible podium contenders faced significant splits during the challenging opening stage, the competition promises to intensify further in the days ahead. The tough second stage on Monday, encompassing six categorized climbs, is likely to shake up the peloton as the riders tackle the 151.7km route from Clermont-Ferrand to Mauriac in the Cantal.
The excitement and unpredictability of the 2023 Tour de France Femmes have already set the stage for a gripping battle to unfold, with fans eagerly anticipating the feats of these remarkable athletes.
