"The Olympic Games in Paris in 2024 is still a very big goal" - Ellen van Dijk remains ambitious as she heads into another season in rainbow

Ellen van Dijk is heading into 2023 in the rainbow jersey after another win in the World Championships in Wollongong, and she is not only looking to thrive in the time-trials this season but also in the classics, and eyes the 2024 Olympics.

After a successful season, van Dijk has enjoyed a much deserved off-season: "Yes, it was very relaxed actually. I've had a very cool year and I'm very happy with everything that worked out," van Dijk said in an interview with In de Leiderstrui. "I had a fairly long break, but it felt like it was over soon."

She's thrived in the time-trials this season mostly, but in 2023 she will also eye the classics. Nevertheless, with a new rainbow jersey and bike on her shoulders, she will look to win with them. “Yes, and there is a time trial in the Tour, so that is very cool. You also have a European Championship and a World Chammpionships, those are my goals."

"That's not very exciting, but that's where my strengths lie. I can be good for the Giro, but that doesn't give me morale. I get morale from my time trial bike and riding in that rainbow suit, that's still the best thing there is. In addition, the classics are still very cool," she continued.

She eyes the future aswell however, stating that "the Olympic Games in Paris in 2024 is still a very big goal, which is still missing from my palmares and wish list."

The 35-year old is having a contract until 2024 with the American team and until then she will remain very ambitious. She will aim for more road wins, having the ever-growing women's World Tour calendar to take advantage of.