Money, rules and going pro in gravel - ‘Not all change is bad’ says Sophie de Boer

Dutch Sophie De Boer pictured in action during the womens elite race at the Poldercross cyclocross cycling race in Bazel Kruibeke the 2nd race out of 8 of the Ethias Cross Trophy Saturday 03 October 2020 BELGA PHOTO DAVID PINTENS Photo by DAVID PINTENSBELGA MAGAFP via Getty Images
Dutch racer Sophie de Boer (Image credit: Getty Images)

Sophie de Boer recently retired from a 15-year career in pro road and cyclo-cross and has found a new love of gravel racing while enjoying the discipline's relaxed and friendly atmosphere. 

Gravel racing could become more, in the future, as she contemplates making a second career out of the popular off-road discipline that is growing, changing and creating new opportunities for athletes.

Kirsten Frattini
Deputy Editor

Kirsten Frattini is the Deputy Editor of Cyclingnews, overseeing the global racing content plan.

Kirsten has a background in Kinesiology and Health Science. She has been involved in cycling from the community and grassroots level to professional cycling's biggest races, reporting on the WorldTour, Spring Classics, Tours de France, World Championships and Olympic Games.

She began her sports journalism career with Cyclingnews as a North American Correspondent in 2006. In 2018, Kirsten became Women's Editor – overseeing the content strategy, race coverage and growth of women's professional cycling – before becoming Deputy Editor in 2023.