Lotte Kopecky sprinted to victory at Paris-Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift on Saturday afternoon, claiming SD-Worx Protime’s first title in the race.
The world champion was active throughout the 148.5km event, leading into the first cobbled sector and closing down moves throughout the day. Kopecky came into the velodrome in a six-rider group, and attacked from behind to beat Elisa Balsamo (Lidl-Trek) over the line.
British national champion Pfeiffer Georgi (dsm-firmenich PostNL) pipped Marianne Vos (Visma-Lease a Bike) for the final podium spot. Ellen van Dijk and Amber Kraak (FDJ-Suez) were also part of the winning move.
Kopecky’s victory comes after two years of frustration for the Belgian. In 2022, she finished second, having led the chase behind Elisa Longo Borghini. The 28-year-old then did the same in 2023, finishing seventh, a handful of seconds behind the breakaway.
The emotion of finally reaching the top step was clear as she crossed the line. Roaring into the wind, Kopecky drew her hands together in a thunderous clap, and then slapped her hands down on her legs.
“This was the goal of the season,” she said afterwards, her face covered in dirt, smiling back at the TV cameras.
More to follow.
Results
Paris-Roubaix Femmes avec Zwift 2024 (148.5km)
1. Lotte Kopecky (Bel) SD Worx-Protime, in 3-47-13
2. Elisa Balsamo (Ita) Lidl-Trek
3. Pfeiffer Georgi (GBr) dsm-firmenich PostNL, both at same time