Pauliena Rooijakkers announces pregnancy, plans to return to racing

Pauliena Rooijakkers, the accomplished Dutch cyclist currently with UAE Team ADQ, has announced that she is expecting her first child and will take a break from professional racing this November. At 33 years old, Rooijakkers expressed her intention to return to competitive cycling after her pregnancy, emphasising that she still feels she has more to contribute to the sport. Her decision comes after a successful career highlighted by consistent top ten finishes in all three Grand Tours and a podium place at the 2024 Tour de France Femmes. Rooijakkers joined UAE Team ADQ in 2026 on a two-year contract and last competed earlier this year at the Setmana Ciclista Valenciana. She reflected on the increasing demands of women’s cycling, both physically and mentally, and shared how she has recently focused on regaining balance and wellbeing with the support of her team. The pregnancy, which came as a surprise, has brought her immense happiness and a renewed sense of health, marking a significant new chapter in her life. Looking ahead, Rooijakkers remains committed to her cycling career and plans to resume racing after becoming a mother. She has continued training during her pregnancy and closely followed her team’s performances, underscoring how integral cycling remains to her identity. Her outlook is inspired by fellow professionals such as Lizzie Deignan and Ellen van Dijk, who successfully returned to elite competition after childbirth, achieving major victories and stage wins. The news was warmly received within the cycling community, with numerous riders including Tiffany Cromwell and Demi Vollering offering their congratulations on social media. Rooijakkers’ announcement not only highlights the evolving landscape of women’s cycling but also contributes to the growing narrative of athletes balancing motherhood with high-level sport. Her journey will be closely watched as she navigates this transition and aims to make a competitive comeback in the seasons ahead.