"I’m 34, and Annemiek van Vleuten won a world title at 40" - Lizzie Deignan hopes to spend many more years in the professional peloton

Lizzie Deignan has confirmed to GCN that she is planning to extend her career beyond 2024, and that she could potentially race for another six years. The former road world champion is out of contract with Lidl-Trek in twelve months but she is keen to maintain her presence in the women’s WorldTour.

"The year was pretty good. I always want more, and I didn’t win a race all year. I think that’s the first time that’s happened in my career, but I did lots of good things. I was quite good at being a key support rider in many races that I did, and my level got better as the year went on. There was a nice result at Worlds, which was good for my confidence, so overall it wasn’t a disappointment. I just wanted more," Deignan told GCN at the recent Rouleur Live event in London.

"Next year, I want to focus on the Tour de France. I want to be there, in shape, and win a stage. I won’t be there for the overall, but I want to be in a position to try and take a stage," Deignan unveils first details about her 2024 schedule. "The calendar is getting fuller and fuller, so it’s getting harder to try and find a break away from your peaks. So with the Tour, Olympics and the Worlds I think you need to push the brakes heading into the season."

"I think I want to continue to race because of the opportunities that are around now. I’d be crazy to work my whole career, and then when I can earn a good salary, and race the best races, to just retire. I don’t feel ready for that. I think that I’ll push it for as long as I can. I’m 34, and Annemiek van Vleuten won a world title at 40. So there’s a potential for around six more years of professional cycling if I still have the motivation and I’m good enough," Deignan says about her future plans.