Lotte Kopecky eager for Omloop Het Nieuwsblad: "From now on, it's game on"

Lotte Kopecky starts her road season with visible enthusiasm. The Belgian leader of SD Worx-Protime is particularly looking forward to Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, where she will start with confidence after a strong winter. “I was able to complete a trouble-free winter. The signals are good, but this is the first real test. Only in competition do you know how your level compares,” Kopecky stated in a press release.

The world champion can hardly hide her impatience. “I’m really eager to start the season. During training camp, I was counting down the days until I could race again. The day after tomorrow, it’s finally time,” she said. For Kopecky, the Belgian opening classic still feels like the true starting signal. “Maybe it’s a bit old school, but for me, the racing season really begins with Omloop Het Nieuwsblad… At Omloop, it’s really about putting everything on the line.”

That confidence doesn’t come out of nowhere, as the preparation went according to plan. “Have I had a good winter? Luckily, yes. Compared to last year, I will be able to start my season with a much better feeling. It was a winter without many setbacks,” she explained. At the same time, the rider remains realistic. “The tests were good, although they don’t yet fully reflect race rhythm. But the signals are positive, and that gives me confidence to start the season.”

With a strong team around her, Kopecky heads into spring with an open mind. “I approach every race with an open mind. I want to see how the race unfolds, where opportunities arise, and where I can push things.” Still, the motivation to score immediately is high. “I hope to start 2026 strong with a solid performance at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad… That adds extra motivation,” Kopecky concluded determinedly.