Lizzie Deignan hopes to inspire the next generation of cyclists in Great Britain after being confirmed for the RideLondon Classique. The event, which runs from May 26-28, is the only World Tour-level race across men’s and women’s cycling to be held in the United Kingdom this year.
"I hope to be able to open the door to this fantastic sport to the next generation of cyclists," said Deignan. The British rider has recently returned to competition after having her second child and has worn the Trek - Segafredo colours already.
RideLondon Classique is a three-stage event, with the opening two stages taking place in the county of Essex before a climactic finish in central London on the final day. "The beautiful countryside of Essex and the iconic London stage finishing on The Mall promise to be packed with cycling enthusiasts,” Deignan added.
"I have some miles in my legs after an earlier-than-anticipated comeback, so I'm feeling strong for this race."
The former road World Championships and Paris-Roubaix winner admitted she was taken aback by news of Women’s Tour in March not taking place in 2023. The three-week event was due to begin in June in Warwickshire but was forced into a one-year hiatus for financial reasons.
Well the last time I raced down the Mall outside Buckingham Palace in London, it ended pretty well 😜 🤩#London2012 so I can’t wait to race this year’s Ford RideLondon Classique with my @TrekSegafredo teammates and hope we can go one better! #RideLondon @RideLondon
