Elisa Longo Borghini Eyes Explosive Milan-San Remo, Signaling a Shift in Women’s Cycling Tactics
Elisa Longo Borghini (UAE Team ADQ) returns to Milan-San Remo Women with a renewed focus on aggressive racing, anticipating a more dynamic contest than the inaugural edition in 2025. This expectation reflects a broader trend in women’s cycling: races are heating up earlier, demanding increased tactical awareness and explosive power from riders.
The Evolving Tactics of Women’s One-Day Classics
Last year’s Milan-San Remo Women saw Longo Borghini launch a solo attack on the Poggio, only to be reeled in before the finish, where Lorena Wiebes ultimately triumphed. This year, the expectation is for attacks to commence earlier, potentially on the longer and more challenging Cipressa. This shift isn’t isolated to Milan-San Remo; it’s a pattern emerging across the Spring Classics.
The increasing aggressiveness stems from a growing understanding of race dynamics and a willingness to take risks. Riders are learning from previous editions, and teams are developing strategies to exploit vulnerabilities earlier in the race. This is particularly true as the women’s peloton gains experience with these historically male-dominated events.
UAE Team ADQ: A Force for Aggression
Longo Borghini’s team, UAE Team ADQ, is predicted to be a key instigator of this early aggression. Since Longo Borghini joined in 2025, the team has demonstrated strong teamwork and a commitment to proactive racing. The team’s strength isn’t solely reliant on Longo Borghini; riders like Eleonora Gasparrini and Silvia Persico offer additional attacking options.
“Everyone is ready to help me and I’m ready to help them,” Longo Borghini stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit within the team. This emphasis on teamwork is becoming a defining characteristic of successful squads in women’s cycling, mirroring strategies seen in the men’s peloton.
Recent Form and Momentum
Longo Borghini’s strong start to the 2026 season, including a third victory at the UAE Tour and a fourth-place finish at Strade Bianche, underscores her current form. Her win at the Trofeo Oro in Euro further demonstrates her competitive edge. While she wasn’t contesting for the win at Trofeo Alfredo Binda, she used the race as valuable training, focusing on explosive accelerations – a crucial skill for Milan-San Remo.
The Cipressa: A Potential Launchpad
The Cipressa climb is emerging as a focal point for potential attacks. Its length and gradient make it more suitable for climbers, potentially disrupting the traditional sprint finishes that have characterized some women’s Classics. Teams are likely to position their key riders strategically on the Cipressa, setting the stage for a decisive move.
Longo Borghini believes the race could “explode” on the Cipressa, acknowledging the increased willingness of riders to take risks based on their experiences in the 2025 edition.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Women’s Cycling?
The trend towards earlier and more aggressive racing signals a maturation of women’s cycling. As riders gain experience and teams refine their tactics, races are becoming more unpredictable and exciting. This evolution is attracting greater viewership and investment, further fueling the sport’s growth.
FAQ
Q: Will Milan-San Remo Women always be an aggressive race?
A: It’s likely to remain more aggressive than in its initial year, as riders gain experience and teams develop strategies. However, the specific race dynamics will always vary.
Q: Is teamwork becoming more important in women’s cycling?
A: Yes, teamwork is increasingly crucial, as demonstrated by the success of teams like UAE Team ADQ. Coordinated efforts are often necessary to control the race and launch successful attacks.
Q: What makes the Cipressa a key climb in Milan-San Remo Women?
A: The Cipressa is longer and harder than the Poggio, making it more favorable for climbers and a potential launchpad for decisive attacks.
Did you grasp? Elisa Longo Borghini is a two-time winner of the Giro d’Italia Women (2024 and 2025).
Pro Tip: Pay attention to team dynamics on the Cipressa. The team that controls the pace and positions its riders effectively will have a significant advantage.
What are your predictions for Milan-San Remo Women? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
