Lotte Kopecky, accompanied by her SD Worx-Protime team, unveiled an exhibition showcasing the history of the Dutch powerhouse squad at the Center of the Tour of Flanders in Oudenaarde. As anticipation builds for Sunday’s Tour of Flanders, Kopecky aims for her third consecutive victory, brushing off suggestions of Vollering’s departure will impact their performance.
Speaking to Sporza, Kopecky expressed her aspirations for Sunday’s race, stating, “It would be very special to win on Sunday. It feels like everything aligns: the Tour of Flanders, the rainbow jersey, and the number 1.” Despite the challenges ahead, Kopecky remains focused, asserting, “I will certainly do everything in my power.”
Acknowledging the strong team support, Kopecky remains confident despite challenges faced in previous races. “We will come back collectively stronger on Sunday. That was missing yesterday,” she said optimistically.
Addressing Vollering’s impending departure, Kopecky emphasised team unity, stating, “For nobody in the team is all this upheaval enjoyable. The choice Demi makes must be solely hers. Nonetheless, we can still race as a team.”
Vollering, who aims to secure her first Tour of Flanders victory, downplayed any distractions regarding her future, stating, “I was a bit surprised by the team’s statement, but I’m not going to talk about it too much now,” said Vollering. “I try to put it aside. I have a lot of enthusiasm to race with the team.”
With Vollering’s departure looming, SD Worx-Protime team manager Erwin Janssen disclosed ongoing negotiations and Vollering’s rejection to respond to their final offer. However, Janssen remains optimistic about the team’s performance, expressing, “We need to ensure it does not have negative consequences. Ultimately, we want to continue our success together this year.”
“But ultimately I see this mainly as a business thing. If you look at what Demi has achieved with us, and what we have achieved with her, she deserves that we will continue to do great together this year. That is what we want, That’s what she wants, so I don’t see why it won’t happen that way,” said Janssen.
As the cycling world eagerly anticipates the 2024 Tour of Flanders, Kopecky and Vollering will be aiming to overcome distractions and lead SD Worx-Protime to victory again in Oudenaarde.
