DUTCH COURAGE

WHEN DUTCHWOMAN ANNEMIEK VAN VLEUTEN broke her elbow in a fall during the team time trial at the 2022 World Championships in Wollongong, Australia, her chances of adding another rainbow jersey to her 2019 title seemed hopeless

Unable to climb out of the saddle, and struggling with pain throughout the road race, Van Vleuten barely hung on – before attacking the small lead group with only a kilometre to go.

Her elbow prevented her from sprinting effectively, so late acceleration was her only option. But Van Vleuten pushed through, and won her fourth world title (two road, two ITT) against all odds.

This year, one of the most iconic riders in women’s cycling is planning to retire; but recently she was nominated for a Laureus Award in the Comeback of the Year category.

She gave this exclusive interview to Bicycling.

You’ve been nominated in the Comeback of the Year category, along with people like Tiger Woods. Illustrious company, hey?

Annemiek van Vleuten: It makes me proud to think that when I started cycling, it was never possible that women cyclists would be nominated together with names like that. I think it’s quite a journey we’ve taken with the development and professionalism of my sport, and it makes me also super-proud.

You’ve said you’re retiring at the end of the 2023 season. Is wearing the rainbow jersey a nice way to end your career?

AvV: Yes, it makes the decision also a bit easier. If you can stop in your last year wearing the rainbow jersey, it’s the best way to stop. So, yes, it only encourages me in my decision to stop now and enjoy my last year in this jersey.

I’ve been in Colombia, and it’s been crazy how many people saw me there, encouraged me, and called my name… like, even people working on the street!