Lizzie
Deignan
What else is there to say about Lizzie? Few riders in the history of the sport have shined in big moments like her. Her explosive kick has netted wins in esteemed classics like the Tour of Flanders, Strade Bianche, GP de Plouay-Bretagne, La Course by Le Tour de France and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. In 2020 she finished first in the UCI Women's WorldTour individual rankings. In 2021, she etched her name in history as the first ever winner of Paris-Roubaix Femmes. In September 2022 Lizzie gave birth to her second child, Shea, and returned to racing the following May. Her fierce competitiveness and measured leadership sets the tone for the whole squad. She's the queen for a reason.
Questions /
Answers
Tell us about your greatest cycling achievement.
Paris-Roubaix for so many reasons. We didn't have a chance to dream for so long; it's always been a men's race, and I am just so proud of this is where we are, that women's cycling is on the world stage now. I am proud that my daughter can look at the [cobblestone trophy]. She doesn't just have to watch men on the TV anymore, we're here, and we're representing.
What is your favorite family tradition?
Our annual 'family day after boxing day’ family fun run! It’s 5km and a race that only some of the family takes seriously, but everyone does it. I have never won it; my cousin who is a semi-professional football player has won it every year. I’m hopeful one day a Deignan will take home the chocolate trophy!
Who inspires you? Why?
Serena Williams. She is unashamedly a confident and powerful women. She has broken boundaries and paved the way for so many different women in sport and business.