'When I’m on my bike I feel free' - Kopecky makes Tour of Flanders history

Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx) holds the Tour of Flanders winners trophy aloft in 2023 for a second year in a row
Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx) holds the Tour of Flanders winners trophy aloft in 2023 for a second year in a row (Image credit: Luc Claessen/Getty Images)

Lotte Kopecky (SD Worx) has entered the record books with her second consecutive victory at the Tour of Flanders, becoming only the second woman after 2004/2005 winner Mirjam Melchers to defend the title.

“It’s a bit unbelievable, actually. Last year, Flanders was the race of my dreams, and to win it now for the second time in a row, also how we did it, is very special,” the 27-year-old said at the winner’s press conference.

Lukas Knöfler started working in cycling communications in 2013 and has seen the inside of the scene from many angles. Having worked as press officer for teams and races and written for several online and print publications, he has been Cyclingnews’ Women’s WorldTour correspondent since 2018.