Elena Cecchini is looking forward to her final Trofeo Alfredo Binda

Team SD Worx-Protime will line up with Blanka Vas, Lotte Kopecky, Mischa Bredewold, Nienke Vinke, Anna van der Breggen and Elena Cecchini at the Trofeo Alfredo Binda. The Italian classic is one of the oldest races on the women’s calendar. “We have a team that’s prepared for any scenario. That’s essential, because this race is incredibly unpredictable. That’s what makes it one of my favourite classics,” says Cecchini ahead of her final Trofeo Alfredo Binda. 

Elena Cecchini: “The Trofeo Alfredo Binda is one of the historic races on the calendar. With the arrival of Milan–Sanremo, the Trofeo Alfredo Binda now takes place a week earlier. As a result, they often have a very strong line-up, which makes the race even more exciting. It also gets tougher every year.”

“This is one of my favourite races. I loved it even when I wasn’t particularly good at it myself in the beginning. I’ve regularly finished in the top five. I just love the dynamics. Any scenario is possible. Sometimes someone finishes solo, sometimes you have a bunch sprint and sometimes a small group. You can never predict the outcome. It’s always been a goal for me in the classics. This race has a special place in my heart.”

“Since I joined Team SD Worx-Protime (2021, ed.), our team hasn’t managed to win this race yet. I want to make one last push for victory with the team. We’ll be lining up with a variety of riders. Given how our season has started, we won’t be seen as the absolute favourites. But Blanka Vas finished second in the Trofeo Alfredo Binda last year. This race should also suit Mischa Bredewold well, and she often plays a key role in one-day races.  Lotte Kopecky is a true champion, and Anna van der Breggen and Nienke Vinke also have what it takes to win here.”

“It will be crucial to be alert and in the mix at the front. On this course, it’s difficult to chase down a breakaway. That’s why we must always have someone in front when an attack is launched. Moreover, every one of our riders on the start line has a strong final sprint. So we need to play our cards right.”

“How does it feel to be at the start of the Trofeo Alfredo Binda for the last time? It really motivates me. Sometimes, during races or training sessions, it suddenly hits me that this really is my final season. Then I think to myself, for example: ‘This is the last time I’ll be training specifically for this.’ That helps me bring out the best in myself. Cycling is still one of the most wonderful things you can do in life. So I’d better make the most of my final year. I can come and watch the races next year. But it won’t be the same. The Trofeo Alfredo Binda is still missing from my list of victories that I’ve contributed to with Team SD Worx-Protime. So I’m extra motivated to get that victory together with the team.”