Lotte Kopecky came close to the gravel world title on Saturday, placing second in Leuven after a sprint against Dutchwoman Marianne Vos in the women’s race at the World Championships.
In her post-race reaction, she mentioned feeling severe back pain. Kopecky also stressed the need for a course change for the men’s race to improve safety.
“It was my first gravel race and it’s something totally different,” commented the road world champion. “It was nice, but as soon as I escaped with Marianne, my lower back exploded. I think it’s because of all the bumping from the potholes. I tried to release a little, but it was horrible and very painful. »
As for the sprint for gold, Kopecky tried to control it by taking the lead. “I should have done it differently, attacked a little earlier. But with Marianne, you’re never sure. It’s no big deal to finish second behind her. »
In the coming weeks, the 28-year-old from Antwerp plans to take part in the Simac Ladies Tour in the Netherlands and the Track World Championships in Denmark. “I’ll try to recover a little first. The last few days I haven’t been 100%. I’m glad it went well today. »
Kopecky also showed his commitment by calling for a change to the course for Sunday’s men’s race: “In recent days there has been a lot of discussion about safety. There is a passage, entering Halle, which is not really secure. I hope they change that. »
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