'I'm worthy of being at the front' – Zoe Bäckstedt heads to Paris-Roubaix Femmes as a favourite after 'best day ever' at Flanders

Zoe Bäckstedt is emerging as a leading contender for this year’s Paris-Roubaix Femmes after delivering her best-ever performance at the Tour of Flanders. The 21-year-old Welsh rider, who has already claimed titles as a junior and under-23 world champion, impressed by finishing fifth in one of cycling’s most prestigious one-day races. This result follows a strong showing at Dwars door Vlaanderen, where she finished fourth, signalling a significant step forward in her development within the WorldTour peloton. Bäckstedt’s ride at Flanders was marked by resilience and tactical acumen, holding her own against established stars such as Demi Vollering and Pauline Ferrand-Prévot. She described the experience as the best day of her career so far, highlighting her growing confidence and ability to stay at the front in demanding races. Despite the physical and mental challenges posed by the cobbled climbs, she maintained focus and determination, which she believes will serve her well in the upcoming Roubaix, a race that perfectly suits her strengths. The upcoming Paris-Roubaix Femmes holds special significance for Bäckstedt, not only because it is her favourite race but also due to its connection with her family legacy—her father, Magnus Bäckstedt, won the men’s edition in 2004. Having competed in every edition of the women’s race since turning professional in 2023, she is now aiming to transition from a participant to a genuine contender. She emphasises the importance of experience, positioning, and a bit of luck in navigating the brutal cobbled sectors that define Roubaix. Bäckstedt is expected to lead her team at Paris-Roubaix Femmes, especially following the absence of Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney due to injury. She is determined to be at the front when the decisive moves happen, confident in her ability to manage the race’s unpredictability. With her form peaking and motivation high, she views this race as the culmination of her spring campaign and is ready to give everything before taking a well-earned break. Her recent performances and mindset suggest that Bäckstedt is no longer just a promising young talent but a rider capable of challenging for victories in cycling’s toughest classics. If she can combine her physical readiness with tactical savvy and a bit of fortune, she could well add her name to the list of greats at the “Hell of the North.” The cycling world will be watching closely as she seeks to convert her potential into a landmark win at Paris-Roubaix Femmes.