"If family life does not suffer because of the sport, I will probably continue for longer" - Ellen van Dijk open to continue career beyond Paris Olympic Games

Two months after giving birth, Ellen van Dijk is returning to the bike and will hope to build her form to it's very best in time for the Olympic Games. However she admits that she may prolong her career after Paris.

“If family life does not suffer because of the sport, I will probably continue for longer, even after 2024. If I succeed in obtaining an Olympic medal, that does not mean that I will put the bike away," van Dijk told AD. “The time trial section made me happy. Flat, wide with long straight stretches. Made for me. Chloé Dygert and Marlen Reusser are my main rivals.”

Pregnancy in pro riders, for several reasons - but mainly job stability - is rare but in recent years has been on the uprising. As one of the biggest figures of the sport, van Dijk's story may inspire other athletes to pursue the same goals, specially seeing how for the time being everything is on track for the Dutch rider. She aims for Olympic Gold this upcoming summer and was herself inspired by teammate Lizzie Deignan who has recently returned after her second pregnancy.

“She has two children and knows how to combine that with cycling," van Dijk said of the Briton. "Lizzie and I have the full cooperation of Lidl-Trek. Staying active during pregnancy is good for mother and child. I had little trouble with pregnancy ailments. Faas was born at home and is doing fine."