Elisa Balsamo: “I really wanted to win today, the last day of this incredible season in the rainbow jersey”

Elisa Balsamo once again proved to be the best as she sprinted to secure the final stage of the Ceratizit Challenge by La Vuelta.

“I really wanted to win today, the last day of this incredible season in the rainbow jersey,” said Balsamo. She got a bit emotional after the victory, “I won the first race, in February, at the Setmana Valenciana, and with today's win, it's like I'm closing a circle. Today is a special day, full of emotions. Madrid was a crazy setting.”

Women's WorldTour is scheduled to end in October, but for Balsamo, it was her last race for the season, so victory in the last race makes it a bit special for her.“I am extremely happy. This is my last race with the jersey, and there is no better way to end such a wonderful season for me. Today we really were the strongest team, and I have to say a big thanks you to my team,” Balsamo said.

After some rest, she will travel to Australia to participate in World Championships.“Now I can see the World Championship on the horizon. The road race is still two weeks away. There is still time to work on the last details. I'm going to Australia with the goal of trying to regain the rainbow jersey, which I've grown fond of,” concluded Balsamo.