The Tour of Flanders, a fantastic Tour de France (stage win, green jersey and 2nd in the final standings), two world titles on the track and world champion on the road. This is just a small selection from Lotte Kopecky’s list of honors in 2023.
Now there is also the title of Sportswoman of the Year. “This is a nice reward for the past year,” Kopecky responded. “This gives a very proud feeling. I have had a very nice and consistent year with many highlights.”
If Kopecky has to pick one moment, she doesn’t hesitate. “That is surely the world title on the road. Glasgow was a fantastic week with the highlight at the end. That moment stands out the most for me.”
In 2017, Kopecky was voted Promise of the Year. “It is very nice to have met those expectations in a certain way.”
At the age of 28, Kopecky is world top and the very first rider to be elected Sportswoman of the Year. “I don’t attach much importance to that in itself. For me it’s about the trophy itself. This goes further than just the cycling world. I am quite proud to be able to take this trophy home.”
Yet it wasn’t all roses and moonshine for Kopecky this year. She thought about it for a moment on stage.
“I would like to thank a lot of people: family, team, federation and some very good and special friends who guided me through some difficult moments this year. The people who feel addressed will know.”
In the meantime, Kopecky’s eyes are already focused on 2024. “My season was actually over at the end of September, so I’ve had a long period to take it easy and I’ve been home a lot.”
That is over now. “I have just returned from an internship in Livigno and am leaving for Spain tomorrow.” There she wants to take the next step in her preparation for 2024.
“First, all my focus is on scoring in the spring and then starting the preparation for the Olympic Games with a good feeling.” To then follow up with an Olympic title next year? “Can I sign somewhere,” Kopecky laughed.
