Zoe Bäckstedt is aiming for time-trial glory at the Tour de France Femmes after being on a cloud since her national title. The 21-year-old showcased her time-trialling prowess by chasing content creator Dan Jones up Cheddar Gorge, making light work of one of Britain's most famous climbs.
Preparation and Setback
Preparations for the season were far from straightforward. "Over the winter it was a bit different because I broke my wrist, so I was restricted in what I could do," Bäckstedt explained. "A lot of my sessions ended up being on the time trial bike because it allowed me to rest my wrist without putting too much pressure through it, while still doing my intervals!"
Strong Campaign
Despite the setback, Bäckstedt has enjoyed one of the strongest campaigns of her career. She claimed a time-trial victory at the Vuelta a Extremadura Femenina before completing the British road race and time-trial double. On the eve of the Tour, she wrapped up overall victory at the Baloise Ladies Tour.
"It gives me extra confidence and motivation going into the race, especially with the time trial coming up," Bäckstedt explained. "I'm taking all the motivation from those recent results into the Tour, and hopefully I can pass some of that confidence on to the rest of the team as well. I've been on a bit of a cloud since Nationals!"
Team Role
While the time trial presents an opportunity for an individual result, Bäckstedt's primary role will be supporting 2024 champion Kasia Niewiadoma as she bids to regain her yellow jersey. "I think that's something I'm quite good at - keeping her where she needs to be during the race."
Niewiadoma sealed overall victory last year after surviving the final ascent of Alpe d'Huez, holding off Demi Vollering by just four seconds.
Mont Ventoux Challenge
This year's route presents another iconic climbing challenge in the shape of Mont Ventoux. "I'm definitely a little nervous about it. It's going to be an absolutely brutal climb. I'm just hoping there are plenty of crowds on the climb and lots of people cheering. That always gives you extra motivation."
"I definitely won't be one of the first riders up there, so hopefully I'll have a bit of time to enjoy the atmosphere and take in the fans!"
