Milan, Italy – Lotte Kopecky of Team SD Worx-Protime secured a triumphant victory at the 2026 Milan-San Remo Women’s race on Saturday, March 21st, showcasing a powerful sprint on the iconic Via Roma. The 30-year-aged Belgian rider added another Monument to her impressive palmarès, marking her fifth career Monument win. The race unfolded as a thrilling contest, culminating in a decisive sprint finish that cemented Kopecky’s place among cycling’s elite.
Kopecky’s win was a masterclass in teamwork and execution. According to reports from the race, Team SD Worx-Protime meticulously positioned her throughout the challenging course, setting the stage for a perfectly timed sprint. “This is fantastic. I had the full support of Team SD Worx-Protime. I had a lot of confidence, and all the pieces fell into place,” Kopecky explained after the race, as reported by socalcycling.com. The victory comes on the heels of her recent win at Danilith Nokere Koerse, demonstrating a sustained peak in her form.
A Tactical Race to the Finish
The Milan-San Remo Women’s race is renowned for its demanding terrain and strategic complexities. The final kilometers, particularly the ascent of the Poggio, often serve as a launchpad for decisive attacks. Kopecky’s team successfully navigated these challenges, ensuring she remained in contention throughout the crucial stages. She described the race dynamics, noting that she intentionally allowed herself to be positioned slightly back on the Cipressa climb to conserve energy before unleashing her sprint.
“We started the Cipressa in a good position, but I let myself acquire pushed back a bit. But I could move up at my own pace fairly quickly without wasting too much energy. So I knew I really had a good pair of legs today,” Kopecky stated. Her ability to respond to attacks on the Poggio, coupled with the support of her teammates, proved pivotal in setting up the sprint.
Eddy Merckx Celebrates Son and Partner’s Success
The victory held added significance for cycling legend Eddy Merckx, whose son, Axel Merckx, is in a relationship with Lotte Kopecky. Merckx, who has recently undergone multiple surgeries and a stroke but is now recovering, publicly expressed his support and happiness for the couple. According to reports from VTM Nieuws, Merckx was watching both the men’s and women’s races at Milan-San Remo, with Tadej Pogačar winning the men’s event. He admitted to becoming a more invested fan since his son and Kopecky began dating in January.
“You grow automatically a little supporter,” Merckx said, visibly pleased with Kopecky’s achievements in Nokere Koerse and Milan-San Remo. The 80-year-old “Cannibal” remains deeply connected to the sport, both through family ties and his enduring passion for cycling. His recent health challenges haven’t diminished his enthusiasm, and he hopes to return to cycling himself soon.
Kopecky’s Dominant Sprint
The final sprint on the Via Roma saw Kopecky emerge victorious from a select group of five riders. Her powerful acceleration and precise timing allowed her to overcome her rivals and claim the coveted title. She credited her teammates for their constant positioning throughout the climbs, ensuring she was well-placed for the final push.
“My teammates did a fantastic job constantly positioning us in the right place heading into the climbs,” Kopecky explained. She also acknowledged the encouragement she received from her team during the race, which boosted her confidence. “Lorena also shouted in my earpiece, and that gave me even more confidence.”
Looking Ahead
Lotte Kopecky’s victory at Milan-San Remo solidifies her position as one of the leading figures in women’s cycling. Her success with Team SD Worx-Protime demonstrates the power of strategic teamwork and individual talent. The win is a significant milestone in her career, adding to her growing list of accomplishments.
Kopecky and Axel Merckx’s relationship continues to garner attention within the cycling world, with Eddy Merckx expressing his warm wishes for their future success both on and off the bike. The cycling community will be watching with interest as Kopecky continues her season, aiming for further victories and cementing her legacy in the sport.
The next scheduled race for Lotte Kopecky is currently unconfirmed, but she is expected to participate in upcoming WorldTour events. Fans can follow her progress and Team SD Worx-Protime’s updates through their official website and social media channels.
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