The sporting world is eagerly anticipating the UCI World Track Championships in 2024, set to take place in Bellerup, Denmark, from October 16th to 20th. This prestigious event features a variety of exciting disciplines, showcasing the athleticism and talent of the world’s best cyclists. Competitors will participate in the sprint, keirin, individual pursuit, team pursuit, scratch race, points race, Madison, omnium, team sprint, and the newly added elimination race.
The history of these championships dates back to 1893 when they were first held in Chicago under the ICA, initially for amateur cyclists. Professional races began in 1895, with amateurs and professionals competing in separate events until 1993 when they were combined into “open” races. Riders are selected by their national cycling associations and race in their country’s colors. The winners receive gold medals, with the UCI also awarding a rainbow jersey to the champions. This jersey is worn until the next championships, but only in the event in which the rider won it.
As we approach this significant event, let’s take a closer look at some of the top female cyclists in the world.
DEMI VOLLERING
Demi Vollering began her professional career in 2019 and quickly made an impact in the cycling world, particularly during her first classics campaign in the Ardennes. She achieved a significant third-place finish at Liège-Bastogne-Liège, marking her breakthrough moment. Later that year, she notched her first professional victory at the Volta Limburg Classic and earned a spot on the Dutch national team. After joining Team SD Worx in 2021, she achieved notable successes, including her first World Tour win at Liège-Bastogne-Liège and a victory at La Course by Le Tour de France. By 2022, she had taken on the role of team leader, finishing second in the Tour de France Femmes, and set her sights on winning the title the following year. Vollering aims to inspire others to lead active lifestyles, believing that encouraging movement can positively impact both physical and mental health.
LOTTE KOPECKY
Lotte Kopecky started her cycling journey at a young age, becoming the Belgian junior time trial champion in 2012. She quickly made a name for herself in both road and track cycling, winning multiple national titles. By 2016, she achieved her first professional road race victory, and in 2019, she established herself as a dominant force after joining the SD Worx team. Kopecky excelled in major classics, winning the Tour of Flanders and Strade Bianche in 2022, and clinched her first world title at the 2023 World Championships. Her versatility and tenacity make her a true inspiration in the cycling community.
ELISA LONGO BORGHINI
Elisa Longo Borghini turned professional in 2011 and made an immediate impact by finishing fifth at her first race, Omloop Het Nieuwsblad. Over the years, she consistently excelled, winning her first significant race at the Trofeo Alfredo Binda in 2013 and becoming the first Italian woman to win the Tour of Flanders in 2015. Longo Borghini’s career highlights include a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics and a victory in the Paris-Roubaix Femmes in 2022. In 2024, she won the Giro d’Italia Women, solidifying her status as one of cycling’s leading athletes.
ELISA BALASMO
Elisa Balasmo burst onto the scene with a stunning win in the 2021 World Championship road race in Leuven, outpacing the renowned Marianne Vos. In her first year with Lidl-Trek, she secured nine victories, including Gent-Wevelgem and two stages of the Giro d’Italia, where she wore the iconic Maglia Rosa. Balasmo continued her strong performance into 2023, earning back-to-back stage wins at Setmana Ciclista-Volta Comunitat Valenciana Fèmines. Known for her tactical brilliance and finishing speed, she remains a formidable force in the peloton, always ready to seize opportunities in the heat of competition.
As cycling keeps moving forward, the incredible achievements and stories of female cyclists showcase their amazing talent, resilience, and dedication to the sport. These athletes inspire a new generation of riders, showing that with determination and hard work, dreams can come true. Their commitment to excellence and love for competition not only raise the profile of the sport but also encourage others to lead active lives. As they push boundaries and set new records, the future of cycling looks bright, fueled by the unstoppable spirit of these remarkable women.