Lotte Kopecky Claims Victory at Milan-San Remo Donne Amidst Dramatic Race
Lotte Kopecky of Team SD Worx-Protime secured a triumphant win at the Milan-San Remo Donne on Saturday, marking a significant comeback after a challenging 2025 season. The race, held over a 156km course from Genoa, saw Kopecky emerge victorious from a five-rider breakaway, sprinting to victory on the Via Roma.
A Return to Form for Kopecky
This win represents a major achievement for Kopecky, adding to her previous victories in cycling’s prestigious monuments, the Tour of Flanders and Paris Roubaix. She had previously supported teammate Lorena Wiebes to victory in the 2025 edition of the race.
The Decisive Break on the Poggio
The decisive move came on the Poggio, where Kopecky responded to an attack from Puck Pieterse. This sparked the formation of a leading group consisting of Kopecky, Pieterse, Noemi Rüegg (EF Education-Oatly), Eleonora Gasparrini (UAE Team ADQ), and Dominika Włodarczyk (UAE Team ADQ). The quintet managed to establish a gap over the chasing peloton, ultimately carrying their advantage to the finish.
Sprint Finish and Final Results
Kopecky timed her sprint perfectly, overtaking her rivals to claim first place. Noemi Rüegg finished second, improving upon her third-place finish in the 2025 race. Eleonora Gasparrini secured the final spot on the podium, benefiting from the operate of her teammate, Dominika Włodarczyk. Puck Pieterse finished fourth, although Włodarczyk placed fifth.
Race Marked by a Significant Crash
The race was marred by a serious crash on the descent of the Cipressa, approximately 19 kilometers from the finish line. Lieke Nooijen fell while leading a chase group, resulting in multiple riders coming down, including Margaux Vigié and Debora Silvestri. Silvestri was taken to the hospital for further evaluation.
The incident drew comparisons to a similar crash involving Martin Svrček during the 2025 Milan-San Remo, where he sustained multiple fractures.
Kopecky’s Reaction and Concerns for Fellow Riders
“It’s just amazing,” Kopecky stated after the race. “I had full support today from the team and I was really confident after the win on Wednesday [in Nokere Koerse].” She also expressed concern for the riders involved in the crash, hoping for their swift recovery.
FAQ
Q: Who won the Milan-San Remo Donne in 2026?
A: Lotte Kopecky of Team SD Worx-Protime.
Q: Where did the decisive breakaway form?
A: On the Poggio climb.
Q: Was there a crash during the race?
A: Yes, a significant crash occurred on the descent of the Cipressa.
Q: Who finished second?
A: Noemi Rüegg.
Q: What other major races has Lotte Kopecky won?
A: The Tour of Flanders and Paris Roubaix.
Did you know? Lotte Kopecky’s victory marks a significant moment in her career, showcasing her resilience and skill after a difficult 2025 season.
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