Elisa’s victory means that Lidl-Trek have now dominated the last five editions of Trofeo Binda.
Elisa Balsamo won her third Trofeo Alfredo Binda in four years, proving once again why she is one of the sport’s most dominant sprinters. The Lidl-Trek rider surged to victory ahead of Blanka Vas (SD Worx-Protime) and Cat Ferguson (Movistar), after a thrilling chase in the final kilometers. Elisa’s victory means that Lidl-Trek have now dominated the last five editions of Trofeo Binda.
It was a red-hot final, with a key moment coming eight kilometers from the line when a dangerous break of six threatened to steal the show. However, the peloton was able to reel in the group, and as they were poised to make contact, Pieterse launched a fresh attack, taking three riders with her. This group looked sure to contest the win, but were caught on the final corner, in time for Balsamo to unleash her sprint and win the race for the third time.
“I’m speechless. It was honestly one of the hardest races ever for me, the last two laps were crazy. My teammates did a great job, and I’m very happy. It’s always so nice to win in Italy and at this race, so it’s a perfect day,” Balsamo said after the win.
“I really like this race, and now I know every single meter of the race,” Balsamo reflected. “Today, a lot of friends and all my family were there, they were pushing me in the last climb, every ten metres there was someone, and I’m so happy.”
