{"id":1831962,"date":"2026-03-17T11:19:12","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T08:19:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1831962"},"modified":"2026-03-17T11:19:12","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T08:19:12","slug":"ive-struggled-with-it-because-i-felt-like-i-was-more-under-the-watchful-eye-urska-zigart-opens-up-about-handling-attention-and-reaching-potential-with-the-belief-of-her-team","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1831962","title":{"rendered":"&#8216;I&#8217;ve struggled with it because I felt like I was more under the watchful eye&#8217; \u2013 Ur\u0161ka \u017digart opens up about handling attention and reaching potential with the belief of her team"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FBjDCdbzt3c9gr7XdyznBi-2560-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nWomen&#8217;s Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;I&#8217;ve struggled with it because I felt like I was more under the watchful eye&#8217; \u2013 Ur\u0161ka \u017digart opens up about handling attention and reaching potential with the belief of her team<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nFeatures<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJames Moultrie <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-03-17T11:19:12Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n17 March 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">After the best season of her career, Slovenian talks about how AG Insurance-Soudal &#8216;pushed the right buttons to get it out of her&#8217; <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FBjDCdbzt3c9gr7XdyznBi-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FBjDCdbzt3c9gr7XdyznBi-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FBjDCdbzt3c9gr7XdyznBi-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FBjDCdbzt3c9gr7XdyznBi-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FBjDCdbzt3c9gr7XdyznBi-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FBjDCdbzt3c9gr7XdyznBi-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FBjDCdbzt3c9gr7XdyznBi-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><figcaption class=\"mt-2\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Simon Wilkinson\/SWpix)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"!m-0\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 sm:ml-1.5 font-base text-xs\"><span class=\"font-normal\">0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div role=\"dialog\" class=\"hidden fixed inset-0 z-[999999999999999999] bg-[#33333370] flex items-center justify-center p-6 newsletter-modal\" data-batch-endpoint=\"https:\/\/newsletter-subscribe.futureplc.com\/v2\/submission\/submit_batch\" data-batch-source=\"302\" data-component-name=\"Newsletter:Modal\">\n<div class=\"bg-neutral-100 rounded-xl shadow-xl w-full lg:w-2\/3 xl:w-1\/2 p-6 relative max-h-[95vh] overflow-y-auto\">\n<div id=\"newsletter-capture-modal\">\n<div class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0 bg-inherit font-ui-heading\">Get the Cyclingnews Newsletter<\/div>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base font-article-copy\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<div data-component-name=\"Newsletter:NewsletterForm\">\n<hr class=\"modal_hr mt-3 mb-4 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"modal_footer block text-left opacity-80 text-[.8em] leading-[1.3em] mt-2 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline font-article-copy\">\nBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"09f763ca-189f-40cd-9ad2-041b7e544348\">Whether you&#8217;re an avid fan of women&#8217;s or men&#8217;s cycling, Ur\u0161ka \u017digart is undeniably one of the most recognisable figures in the sport, likely because she just had the best racing season of her career, or perhaps because her fianc\u00e9 happens to be the best rider in the world.<\/p>\n<p>Having really found her place with a transfer to AG Insurance-Soudal in 2025, the Slovenian is on a trajectory to reach the potential she always thought she possessed since she started racing internationally in 2015. But her career progression hasn&#8217;t come without a &#8220;watchful eye,&#8221; as she describes it, with more attention and scrutiny on her every move due to her relationship with Tadej Poga\u010dar.<\/p>\n<p id=\"09f763ca-189f-40cd-9ad2-041b7e544348-2\">Often at the finish of the men&#8217;s Tour de France&#8217;s biggest stages, when she has a break from racing, \u017digart says that while this added scrutiny has built up a thick skin, it hasn&#8217;t been easy forging her own path in the sport with the attention that becoming modern cycling&#8217;s power couple has brought.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I didn&#8217;t think I deserved all the support I get&#8217; &#8211; Tour de France top-five finisher Niamh Fisher-Black reveals how her 2025 exit from her comfort zone continues to spur her on<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;They win, I don&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Pauliena Rooijakkers on trading consistency for wins with UAE Team ADQ<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;It&#8217;s a credit to women&#8217;s cycling that nobody dominates&#8217; \u2013 2025 Giro leader Anna Henderson analyses where she, Lidl-Trek and the sport are all heading in 2026<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I don&#8217;t know how open I&#8217;ve been about it before, but I&#8217;ve struggled with [the attention] in the past because I felt like I&#8217;m more under the watchful eye because of it,&#8221; she told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> at AG Insurance-Soudal&#8217;s 2026 team presentation in Brussels.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;A lot of people thought that it&#8217;s easier for me, but I would say it was even harder because&#8230; maybe nobody would care about me if I was just another rider, but because of being Tadej&#8217;s girlfriend, they were maybe checking the results or, yeah, just putting a bit more pressure on me from that point.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;But it helped shape me, and maybe now I&#8217;m not as worried about what the public thinks, because I&#8217;ve had to go through that before I had the results. So now, when I&#8217;m in the position that I have to get results, then I know I can handle it if it doesn&#8217;t happen, and I&#8217;m maybe not that down about it, you know.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;So I&#8217;ve lived through the scrutiny before actually being in the position to have to be under scrutiny, if that makes sense. Now it&#8217;s just easier, I would say.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Speaking about Poga\u010dar and his support through those tougher times, \u017digart&#8217;s words echo those of her partner, with his understanding of the pressures of professional cycling playing a key role, but also recognising how they have really shaped each other since being together.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;He&#8217;s one of the first people, and vice versa, that sees how hard we both work, at home, and training camps, trying to make this life work out,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;It&#8217;s not always easy, but I think in the tough moments, it really makes a difference that you know what the other person is going through.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Introducing: Valentina Cavallar \u2013 The Olympic rower turned promising Grand Tour racer who was inspired by the Tour de France Femmes<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;If I have the best legs on the day, I&#8217;ll try to win&#8217; \u2013 Anna van der Breggen still adapting to the new women&#8217;s peloton, but realistic about 2026<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I&#8217;m afraid that the WorldTour could implode at some point, but let&#8217;s see&#8217; &#8211; Elisa Longo Borghini warns current drain on grassroots racing could wreak havoc higher up in sport<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;And as much as he&#8217;s a jokester on the bike and everything, he&#8217;s just a very mature person. I think I wouldn&#8217;t be where I am without him; he always says the same thing. I&#8217;m just happy to have found a partner in life and also a partner in cycling.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"79a6fd87-01df-4a58-bec0-54894c8b4529\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Zigart and Pogacar at Strade Bianche in 2025 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"the-legs-the-power-it-s-always-been-there-3\">&#8216;The legs, the power, it&#8217;s always been there&#8217;<\/h2>\n<p id=\"a109ed98-105a-4ede-9b31-b73278da18a4\">Perhaps with that resilience built up and a refresh after four years at Liv AlUla Jayco, \u017digart has leapt to new heights in the last 12 months, starting at last season&#8217;s Tour de Suisse, where she finished fifth overall behind top GC racers Marlen Reusser, Demi Vollering, Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney and Niamh Fisher-Black.<\/p>\n<p>The best was yet to come, though, as while she missed out on either of the national titles at home in Slovenia for the first time since 2021, \u017digart bounced back with the best Grand Tour result of her career. She finished ninth on GC at the Giro d&#8217;Italia Women in July, mainly thanks to a top pure climbing performance to Monte Nerone, where she came seventh after supporting that day&#8217;s winner, her teammate Sarah Gigante.<\/p>\n<p>But according to her, neither of these was the main highlight. That came in August at the Tour de Romandie, where two second places ended in her finishing second overall \u2013 the best WorldTour result of her career \u2013 where she really felt a shift.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The race I most enjoyed was Romandie, but mostly because of my mindset. It was just the first race where I really arrived and I was like, &#8216;Oh, I think I can do really well here&#8217;, it was like my first show of real confidence,&#8221; said \u017digart.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"715079f5-83d8-4245-96fe-062abc209100\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Zigart finished second overall at the Tour de Romandie behind Elise Chabbey <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"228907c6-4979-4aa4-8f88-f1e587e2ea0b\">&#8220;I really thought, &#8216;OK, let&#8217;s do this. I didn&#8217;t train for nothing. I didn&#8217;t just come here to be here,&#8217;. That&#8217;s why I think I would pick it as the highlight, and also the teamwork behind it.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;It&#8217;s really special when you see each and every girl commit to the plan to support you, and then you feel just this extra power of having to seal the deal in the end. OK, it didn&#8217;t happen in the end, but at the same time, normally in the years before, I was being dropped because I went too slow. So there was a big difference in mentality in that race.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>\u017digart gives ample credit where it&#8217;s due to the Belgian team for those performances, especially noting that it was more a case of unlocking what she knew was in the legs, rather than making several improvements to find a new peak. Perhaps all she needed was a bit of belief, but now she has it, from those around her and internally, the sky really is the limit.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Definitely, from a results point of view, it was my best season. But I think it was also about me evolving as a rider, as a person in this team,&#8221; she told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;They&#8217;ve shown how much they believe in me. I think the legs, the power, it&#8217;s always been there. It&#8217;s just, I think they found a way to push the right buttons to get it out of me at the races. Hopefully, if I continue on that projection, 2026 can be even better.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"fe810300-eb27-4e46-bd3a-0e8163d359e4\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Zigart during Strade Bianche 2026 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Thomas Maheux\/SWpix)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"dbfa6b3f-07f6-449b-b5ba-33acf8522f2d\">With that being said, it was obvious why \u017digart decided to extend her contract until the end of 2027 at the rapidly improving Belgian team, which lit up both the Giro and Tour de France Femmes last year. It&#8217;s safe to say she&#8217;s found her place.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The change of the team after spending four years in Jayco, I don&#8217;t think only in cycling, but in every business, every company, after a while, you maybe get put in a box, in a bracket of what you can do, and what you can&#8217;t do,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think with changing the team, I could just rediscover myself. I saw new opportunities, and the other people saw new things in me. Now, if you repeat it enough times, it becomes true, and because people kept believing in this team and me, it started to happen. Looking back, it was definitely the right choice, and that&#8217;s why I also decided to stay for another year.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">James Moultrie<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">News Writer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>James Moultrie is a gold-standard NCTJ journalist who joined\u00a0Cyclingnews\u00a0as a News Writer in 2023 after originally contributing as a freelancer for eight months, during which time he also wrote for Eurosport, Rouleur and Cycling Weekly. Prior to joining the team he reported on races such as Paris-Roubaix and the Giro d\u2019Italia Donne for Eurosport and has interviewed some of the sport\u2019s top riders in Chlo\u00e9 Dygert, Lizzie Deignan and Wout van Aert. Outside of cycling, he spends the majority of his time watching other sports \u2013 rugby, football, cricket, and American Football to name a few.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I didn&#8217;t think I deserved all the support I get&#8217; &#8211; Tour de France top-five finisher Niamh Fisher-Black reveals how her 2025 exit from her comfort zone continues to spur her on<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;They win, I don&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Pauliena Rooijakkers on trading consistency for wins with UAE Team ADQ<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s a credit to women&#8217;s cycling that nobody dominates&#8217; \u2013 2025 Giro leader Anna Henderson analyses where she, Lidl-Trek and the sport are all heading in 2026<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Emerging Talents<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Introducing: Valentina Cavallar \u2013 The Olympic rower turned promising Grand Tour racer who was inspired by the Tour de France Femmes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;If I have the best legs on the day, I&#8217;ll try to win&#8217; \u2013 Anna van der Breggen still adapting to the new women&#8217;s peloton, but realistic about 2026<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I&#8217;m afraid that the WorldTour could implode at some point, but let&#8217;s see&#8217; &#8211; Elisa Longo Borghini warns current drain on grassroots racing could wreak havoc higher up in sport<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Eleonora Ciabocco escapes with only cuts and stitches after frightening crash in Trofeo Alfredo Binda<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Trofeo Alfredo Binda: Karlijn Swinkels edges Anna van der Breggen to claim first WorldTour victory<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Puck Pieterse to make surprise start at Trofeo Alfredo Binda <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;The best we could achieve in the situation&#8217; \u2013 SD Worx-Protime still waiting on first big Classics win of 2026 after defeat at Trofeo Alfredo Binda<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour of Flanders Women past winners <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Trofeo Alfredo Binda contenders \u2013 Will it be a repeat victor or a new protagonist celebrating in Cittiglio?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Features<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Are scientists now more important than star riders? Inside pro cycling&#8217;s race for scientific innovation<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Have we already seen a Milan-San Remo dress rehearsal? Here&#8217;s what Tirreno-Adriatico and Paris-Nice might reveal about the first Monument of 2026<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Training<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The magic zone \u2013 A deep dive into zone 2 and how taking it steady has become the WorldTour&#8217;s go-to training strategy<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;For better or worse, teams are here&#8217; &#8211; The rosters in 2026 as riders join forces for off-road alliances as the next evolution of gravel and endurance MTB racing takes shape<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;In this role, I have told myself to say yes whenever possible&#8217; \u2013 Alex Dowsett takes us inside the mind of a WorldTour coach<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Riders to watch at Cape Epic 2026 \u2013 Mountain bike stars, gravel pros and Epic veterans form strong and open field for 700km challenge<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">AusCycling special general meeting to go ahead after formal request from clubs but only one of four proposed motions will go to vote<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">UAE Team Emirates-XRG forced to reduce race programme and change rosters after multiple crashes and Jhonatan Narv\u00e1ez, Tim Wellens among riders still out<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Are scientists now more important than star riders? Inside pro cycling&#8217;s race for scientific innovation<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;A killer sprint in the end&#8217; &#8211; Why a mad dash for Mid South Gravel victory shows a new generation has arrived<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">How can a bike be faster in a crosswind? Explaining the sail effect in aerodynamics<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nWomen&#8217;s Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;I&#8217;ve struggled with it because I felt like I was more under the watchful eye&#8217; \u2013 Ur\u0161ka \u017digart opens up about handling attention and reaching potential with the belief of her team<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nFeatures<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJames Moultrie <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-03-17T11:19:12Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n17 March 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">After the best season of her career, Slovenian talks about how AG Insurance-Soudal &#8216;pushed the right buttons to get it out of her&#8217; <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. 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Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"09f763ca-189f-40cd-9ad2-041b7e544348\">Whether you&#8217;re an avid fan of women&#8217;s or men&#8217;s cycling, Ur\u0161ka \u017digart is undeniably one of the most recognisable figures in the sport, likely because she just had the best racing season of her career, or perhaps because her fianc\u00e9 happens to be the best rider in the world.<\/p>\n<p>Having really found her place with a transfer to AG Insurance-Soudal in 2025, the Slovenian is on a trajectory to reach the potential she always thought she possessed since she started racing internationally in 2015. But her career progression hasn&#8217;t come without a &#8220;watchful eye,&#8221; as she describes it, with more attention and scrutiny on her every move due to her relationship with Tadej Poga\u010dar.<\/p>\n<p id=\"09f763ca-189f-40cd-9ad2-041b7e544348-2\">Often at the finish of the men&#8217;s Tour de France&#8217;s biggest stages, when she has a break from racing, \u017digart says that while this added scrutiny has built up a thick skin, it hasn&#8217;t been easy forging her own path in the sport with the attention that becoming modern cycling&#8217;s power couple has brought.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I didn&#8217;t think I deserved all the support I get&#8217; &#8211; Tour de France top-five finisher Niamh Fisher-Black reveals how her 2025 exit from her comfort zone continues to spur her on<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;They win, I don&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Pauliena Rooijakkers on trading consistency for wins with UAE Team ADQ<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;It&#8217;s a credit to women&#8217;s cycling that nobody dominates&#8217; \u2013 2025 Giro leader Anna Henderson analyses where she, Lidl-Trek and the sport are all heading in 2026<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I don&#8217;t know how open I&#8217;ve been about it before, but I&#8217;ve struggled with [the attention] in the past because I felt like I&#8217;m more under the watchful eye because of it,&#8221; she told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> at AG Insurance-Soudal&#8217;s 2026 team presentation in Brussels.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;A lot of people thought that it&#8217;s easier for me, but I would say it was even harder because&#8230; maybe nobody would care about me if I was just another rider, but because of being Tadej&#8217;s girlfriend, they were maybe checking the results or, yeah, just putting a bit more pressure on me from that point.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;But it helped shape me, and maybe now I&#8217;m not as worried about what the public thinks, because I&#8217;ve had to go through that before I had the results. So now, when I&#8217;m in the position that I have to get results, then I know I can handle it if it doesn&#8217;t happen, and I&#8217;m maybe not that down about it, you know.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;So I&#8217;ve lived through the scrutiny before actually being in the position to have to be under scrutiny, if that makes sense. Now it&#8217;s just easier, I would say.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Speaking about Poga\u010dar and his support through those tougher times, \u017digart&#8217;s words echo those of her partner, with his understanding of the pressures of professional cycling playing a key role, but also recognising how they have really shaped each other since being together.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;He&#8217;s one of the first people, and vice versa, that sees how hard we both work, at home, and training camps, trying to make this life work out,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;It&#8217;s not always easy, but I think in the tough moments, it really makes a difference that you know what the other person is going through.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Introducing: Valentina Cavallar \u2013 The Olympic rower turned promising Grand Tour racer who was inspired by the Tour de France Femmes<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;If I have the best legs on the day, I&#8217;ll try to win&#8217; \u2013 Anna van der Breggen still adapting to the new women&#8217;s peloton, but realistic about 2026<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I&#8217;m afraid that the WorldTour could implode at some point, but let&#8217;s see&#8217; &#8211; Elisa Longo Borghini warns current drain on grassroots racing could wreak havoc higher up in sport<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;And as much as he&#8217;s a jokester on the bike and everything, he&#8217;s just a very mature person. I think I wouldn&#8217;t be where I am without him; he always says the same thing. I&#8217;m just happy to have found a partner in life and also a partner in cycling.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"79a6fd87-01df-4a58-bec0-54894c8b4529\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Zigart and Pogacar at Strade Bianche in 2025 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"the-legs-the-power-it-s-always-been-there-3\">&#8216;The legs, the power, it&#8217;s always been there&#8217;<\/h2>\n<p id=\"a109ed98-105a-4ede-9b31-b73278da18a4\">Perhaps with that resilience built up and a refresh after four years at Liv AlUla Jayco, \u017digart has leapt to new heights in the last 12 months, starting at last season&#8217;s Tour de Suisse, where she finished fifth overall behind top GC racers Marlen Reusser, Demi Vollering, Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney and Niamh Fisher-Black.<\/p>\n<p>The best was yet to come, though, as while she missed out on either of the national titles at home in Slovenia for the first time since 2021, \u017digart bounced back with the best Grand Tour result of her career. She finished ninth on GC at the Giro d&#8217;Italia Women in July, mainly thanks to a top pure climbing performance to Monte Nerone, where she came seventh after supporting that day&#8217;s winner, her teammate Sarah Gigante.<\/p>\n<p>But according to her, neither of these was the main highlight. That came in August at the Tour de Romandie, where two second places ended in her finishing second overall \u2013 the best WorldTour result of her career \u2013 where she really felt a shift.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The race I most enjoyed was Romandie, but mostly because of my mindset. It was just the first race where I really arrived and I was like, &#8216;Oh, I think I can do really well here&#8217;, it was like my first show of real confidence,&#8221; said \u017digart.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"715079f5-83d8-4245-96fe-062abc209100\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Zigart finished second overall at the Tour de Romandie behind Elise Chabbey <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"228907c6-4979-4aa4-8f88-f1e587e2ea0b\">&#8220;I really thought, &#8216;OK, let&#8217;s do this. I didn&#8217;t train for nothing. I didn&#8217;t just come here to be here,&#8217;. That&#8217;s why I think I would pick it as the highlight, and also the teamwork behind it.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;It&#8217;s really special when you see each and every girl commit to the plan to support you, and then you feel just this extra power of having to seal the deal in the end. OK, it didn&#8217;t happen in the end, but at the same time, normally in the years before, I was being dropped because I went too slow. So there was a big difference in mentality in that race.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>\u017digart gives ample credit where it&#8217;s due to the Belgian team for those performances, especially noting that it was more a case of unlocking what she knew was in the legs, rather than making several improvements to find a new peak. Perhaps all she needed was a bit of belief, but now she has it, from those around her and internally, the sky really is the limit.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Definitely, from a results point of view, it was my best season. But I think it was also about me evolving as a rider, as a person in this team,&#8221; she told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;They&#8217;ve shown how much they believe in me. I think the legs, the power, it&#8217;s always been there. It&#8217;s just, I think they found a way to push the right buttons to get it out of me at the races. Hopefully, if I continue on that projection, 2026 can be even better.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"fe810300-eb27-4e46-bd3a-0e8163d359e4\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Zigart during Strade Bianche 2026 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Thomas Maheux\/SWpix)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"dbfa6b3f-07f6-449b-b5ba-33acf8522f2d\">With that being said, it was obvious why \u017digart decided to extend her contract until the end of 2027 at the rapidly improving Belgian team, which lit up both the Giro and Tour de France Femmes last year. It&#8217;s safe to say she&#8217;s found her place.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The change of the team after spending four years in Jayco, I don&#8217;t think only in cycling, but in every business, every company, after a while, you maybe get put in a box, in a bracket of what you can do, and what you can&#8217;t do,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think with changing the team, I could just rediscover myself. I saw new opportunities, and the other people saw new things in me. Now, if you repeat it enough times, it becomes true, and because people kept believing in this team and me, it started to happen. Looking back, it was definitely the right choice, and that&#8217;s why I also decided to stay for another year.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5kc8nsofmMWAQECTbzYYw9.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">James Moultrie<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">News Writer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>James Moultrie is a gold-standard NCTJ journalist who joined\u00a0Cyclingnews\u00a0as a News Writer in 2023 after originally contributing as a freelancer for eight months, during which time he also wrote for Eurosport, Rouleur and Cycling Weekly. Prior to joining the team he reported on races such as Paris-Roubaix and the Giro d\u2019Italia Donne for Eurosport and has interviewed some of the sport\u2019s top riders in Chlo\u00e9 Dygert, Lizzie Deignan and Wout van Aert. Outside of cycling, he spends the majority of his time watching other sports \u2013 rugby, football, cricket, and American Football to name a few.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I didn&#8217;t think I deserved all the support I get&#8217; &#8211; Tour de France top-five finisher Niamh Fisher-Black reveals how her 2025 exit from her comfort zone continues to spur her on<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;They win, I don&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Pauliena Rooijakkers on trading consistency for wins with UAE Team ADQ<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s a credit to women&#8217;s cycling that nobody dominates&#8217; \u2013 2025 Giro leader Anna Henderson analyses where she, Lidl-Trek and the sport are all heading in 2026<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Emerging Talents<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Introducing: Valentina Cavallar \u2013 The Olympic rower turned promising Grand Tour racer who was inspired by the Tour de France Femmes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;If I have the best legs on the day, I&#8217;ll try to win&#8217; \u2013 Anna van der Breggen still adapting to the new women&#8217;s peloton, but realistic about 2026<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I&#8217;m afraid that the WorldTour could implode at some point, but let&#8217;s see&#8217; &#8211; Elisa Longo Borghini warns current drain on grassroots racing could wreak havoc higher up in sport<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Bpr6ZyXNF7p45HPm49eKcH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Eleonora Ciabocco escapes with only cuts and stitches after frightening crash in Trofeo Alfredo Binda<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHtwaqfsSb3YdQFXYt4XXA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Trofeo Alfredo Binda: Karlijn Swinkels edges Anna van der Breggen to claim first WorldTour victory<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NEqcjBZCvuHtktinRVFpHA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Puck Pieterse to make surprise start at Trofeo Alfredo Binda <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GBQdttu2vFdaDCVWwjoXYB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;The best we could achieve in the situation&#8217; \u2013 SD Worx-Protime still waiting on first big Classics win of 2026 after defeat at Trofeo Alfredo Binda<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UwXaTaxhbSnvYbDrZ8m2A4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour of Flanders Women past winners <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PV8zLPhtVqDkGVgeHo9ZiV-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Trofeo Alfredo Binda contenders \u2013 Will it be a repeat victor or a new protagonist celebrating in Cittiglio?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Features<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RwzmAx5hHT6BiQqZUVka7A-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Are scientists now more important than star riders? Inside pro cycling&#8217;s race for scientific innovation<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xGWFhcTiyVnymtWhbJ8eXb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Have we already seen a Milan-San Remo dress rehearsal? Here&#8217;s what Tirreno-Adriatico and Paris-Nice might reveal about the first Monument of 2026<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/B9pdg2TycJCpTyCz66yVdL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Training<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The magic zone \u2013 A deep dive into zone 2 and how taking it steady has become the WorldTour&#8217;s go-to training strategy<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;For better or worse, teams are here&#8217; &#8211; The rosters in 2026 as riders join forces for off-road alliances as the next evolution of gravel and endurance MTB racing takes shape<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2Q4f5i4XXSAfrWYb4U6g5i-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;In this role, I have told myself to say yes whenever possible&#8217; \u2013 Alex Dowsett takes us inside the mind of a WorldTour coach<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YejZRDs3Fj2py9HTRRzRHe-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Riders to watch at Cape Epic 2026 \u2013 Mountain bike stars, gravel pros and Epic veterans form strong and open field for 700km challenge<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/otzsskoVTuQezncUwTcfYm.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">AusCycling special general meeting to go ahead after formal request from clubs but only one of four proposed motions will go to vote<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">UAE Team Emirates-XRG forced to reduce race programme and change rosters after multiple crashes and Jhonatan Narv\u00e1ez, Tim Wellens among riders still out<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Are scientists now more important than star riders? Inside pro cycling&#8217;s race for scientific innovation<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;A killer sprint in the end&#8217; &#8211; Why a mad dash for Mid South Gravel victory shows a new generation has arrived<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">How can a bike be faster in a crosswind? Explaining the sail effect in aerodynamics<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nWomen&#8217;s Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;I&#8217;ve struggled with it because I felt like I was more under the watchful eye&#8217; \u2013 Ur\u0161ka \u017digart opens up about handling attention and reaching potential with the belief of her team<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nFeatures<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJames Moultrie <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-03-17T11:19:12Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n17 March 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">After the best season of her career, Slovenian talks about how AG Insurance-Soudal &#8216;pushed the right buttons to get it out of her&#8217; <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. 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Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"09f763ca-189f-40cd-9ad2-041b7e544348\">Whether you&#8217;re an avid fan of women&#8217;s or men&#8217;s cycling, Ur\u0161ka \u017digart is undeniably one of the most recognisable figures in the sport, likely because she just had the best racing season of her career, or perhaps because her fianc\u00e9 happens to be the best rider in the world.<\/p>\n<p>Having really found her place with a transfer to AG Insurance-Soudal in 2025, the Slovenian is on a trajectory to reach the potential she always thought she possessed since she started racing internationally in 2015. But her career progression hasn&#8217;t come without a &#8220;watchful eye,&#8221; as she describes it, with more attention and scrutiny on her every move due to her relationship with Tadej Poga\u010dar.<\/p>\n<p id=\"09f763ca-189f-40cd-9ad2-041b7e544348-2\">Often at the finish of the men&#8217;s Tour de France&#8217;s biggest stages, when she has a break from racing, \u017digart says that while this added scrutiny has built up a thick skin, it hasn&#8217;t been easy forging her own path in the sport with the attention that becoming modern cycling&#8217;s power couple has brought.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFRioamTymBRgibMFqtBMC-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I didn&#8217;t think I deserved all the support I get&#8217; &#8211; Tour de France top-five finisher Niamh Fisher-Black reveals how her 2025 exit from her comfort zone continues to spur her on<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Q9Ucca8PEf89Ud3c4UfWVb-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;They win, I don&#8217;t&#8217; \u2013 Pauliena Rooijakkers on trading consistency for wins with UAE Team ADQ<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/iKaRDcRg4F57SmPJxzwqBJ-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;It&#8217;s a credit to women&#8217;s cycling that nobody dominates&#8217; \u2013 2025 Giro leader Anna Henderson analyses where she, Lidl-Trek and the sport are all heading in 2026<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I don&#8217;t know how open I&#8217;ve been about it before, but I&#8217;ve struggled with [the attention] in the past because I felt like I&#8217;m more under the watchful eye because of it,&#8221; she told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> at AG Insurance-Soudal&#8217;s 2026 team presentation in Brussels.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;A lot of people thought that it&#8217;s easier for me, but I would say it was even harder because&#8230; maybe nobody would care about me if I was just another rider, but because of being Tadej&#8217;s girlfriend, they were maybe checking the results or, yeah, just putting a bit more pressure on me from that point.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;But it helped shape me, and maybe now I&#8217;m not as worried about what the public thinks, because I&#8217;ve had to go through that before I had the results. So now, when I&#8217;m in the position that I have to get results, then I know I can handle it if it doesn&#8217;t happen, and I&#8217;m maybe not that down about it, you know.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;So I&#8217;ve lived through the scrutiny before actually being in the position to have to be under scrutiny, if that makes sense. Now it&#8217;s just easier, I would say.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-wBMeud676X9CZcS2dPJqPe slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Speaking about Poga\u010dar and his support through those tougher times, \u017digart&#8217;s words echo those of her partner, with his understanding of the pressures of professional cycling playing a key role, but also recognising how they have really shaped each other since being together.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;He&#8217;s one of the first people, and vice versa, that sees how hard we both work, at home, and training camps, trying to make this life work out,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;It&#8217;s not always easy, but I think in the tough moments, it really makes a difference that you know what the other person is going through.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w5s3qmGQfBSKaQYqevt99E-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Introducing: Valentina Cavallar \u2013 The Olympic rower turned promising Grand Tour racer who was inspired by the Tour de France Femmes<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/uZFsM9cBZckiwyLF2sSrzj-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;If I have the best legs on the day, I&#8217;ll try to win&#8217; \u2013 Anna van der Breggen still adapting to the new women&#8217;s peloton, but realistic about 2026<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qcBxLd8qfJ9Yrnx4YkJPbm-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I&#8217;m afraid that the WorldTour could implode at some point, but let&#8217;s see&#8217; &#8211; Elisa Longo Borghini warns current drain on grassroots racing could wreak havoc higher up in sport<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;And as much as he&#8217;s a jokester on the bike and everything, he&#8217;s just a very mature person. I think I wouldn&#8217;t be where I am without him; he always says the same thing. I&#8217;m just happy to have found a partner in life and also a partner in cycling.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"79a6fd87-01df-4a58-bec0-54894c8b4529\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/QJxcArYs9raDVrdzr8UJT5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Zigart and Pogacar at Strade Bianche in 2025 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"the-legs-the-power-it-s-always-been-there-3\">&#8216;The legs, the power, it&#8217;s always been there&#8217;<\/h2>\n<p id=\"a109ed98-105a-4ede-9b31-b73278da18a4\">Perhaps with that resilience built up and a refresh after four years at Liv AlUla Jayco, \u017digart has leapt to new heights in the last 12 months, starting at last season&#8217;s Tour de Suisse, where she finished fifth overall behind top GC racers Marlen Reusser, Demi Vollering, Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney and Niamh Fisher-Black.<\/p>\n<p>The best was yet to come, though, as while she missed out on either of the national titles at home in Slovenia for the first time since 2021, \u017digart bounced back with the best Grand Tour result of her career. She finished ninth on GC at the Giro d&#8217;Italia Women in July, mainly thanks to a top pure climbing performance to Monte Nerone, where she came seventh after supporting that day&#8217;s winner, her teammate Sarah Gigante.<\/p>\n<p>But according to her, neither of these was the main highlight. That came in August at the Tour de Romandie, where two second places ended in her finishing second overall \u2013 the best WorldTour result of her career \u2013 where she really felt a shift.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The race I most enjoyed was Romandie, but mostly because of my mindset. It was just the first race where I really arrived and I was like, &#8216;Oh, I think I can do really well here&#8217;, it was like my first show of real confidence,&#8221; said \u017digart.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"715079f5-83d8-4245-96fe-062abc209100\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eaEbmGQDW35kVoGVZ4aBcN-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Zigart finished second overall at the Tour de Romandie behind Elise Chabbey <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"228907c6-4979-4aa4-8f88-f1e587e2ea0b\">&#8220;I really thought, &#8216;OK, let&#8217;s do this. I didn&#8217;t train for nothing. I didn&#8217;t just come here to be here,&#8217;. That&#8217;s why I think I would pick it as the highlight, and also the teamwork behind it.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;It&#8217;s really special when you see each and every girl commit to the plan to support you, and then you feel just this extra power of having to seal the deal in the end. OK, it didn&#8217;t happen in the end, but at the same time, normally in the years before, I was being dropped because I went too slow. So there was a big difference in mentality in that race.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>\u017digart gives ample credit where it&#8217;s due to the Belgian team for those performances, especially noting that it was more a case of unlocking what she knew was in the legs, rather than making several improvements to find a new peak. Perhaps all she needed was a bit of belief, but now she has it, from those around her and internally, the sky really is the limit.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Definitely, from a results point of view, it was my best season. But I think it was also about me evolving as a rider, as a person in this team,&#8221; she told <em>Cyclingnews<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;They&#8217;ve shown how much they believe in me. I think the legs, the power, it&#8217;s always been there. It&#8217;s just, I think they found a way to push the right buttons to get it out of me at the races. Hopefully, if I continue on that projection, 2026 can be even better.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"fe810300-eb27-4e46-bd3a-0e8163d359e4\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DU4z5y8FHcq8JoR2L9FveU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Zigart during Strade Bianche 2026 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Thomas Maheux\/SWpix)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"dbfa6b3f-07f6-449b-b5ba-33acf8522f2d\">With that being said, it was obvious why \u017digart decided to extend her contract until the end of 2027 at the rapidly improving Belgian team, which lit up both the Giro and Tour de France Femmes last year. It&#8217;s safe to say she&#8217;s found her place.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The change of the team after spending four years in Jayco, I don&#8217;t think only in cycling, but in every business, every company, after a while, you maybe get put in a box, in a bracket of what you can do, and what you can&#8217;t do,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I think with changing the team, I could just rediscover myself. I saw new opportunities, and the other people saw new things in me. Now, if you repeat it enough times, it becomes true, and because people kept believing in this team and me, it started to happen. Looking back, it was definitely the right choice, and that&#8217;s why I also decided to stay for another year.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/womens-cycling\/ive-struggled-with-it-because-i-felt-like-i-was-more-under-the-watchful-eye-urska-zigart-opens-up-about-handling-attention-and-reaching-potential-with-the-belief-of-her-team\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FBjDCdbzt3c9gr7XdyznBi-2560-80.jpg&#8221;] Pro Cycling Racing Women&#8217;s Cycling Road &#8216;I&#8217;ve struggled with it because I felt like I was more under the watchful eye&#8217; \u2013 Ur\u0161ka \u017digart opens up about handling attention and reaching potential with the belief of her team Features By James Moultrie published 17 March 2026 After the best season of her [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-1831962","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1831962","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1831962"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1831962\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1831962"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1831962"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1831962"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}