Pauline Ferrand-Prévot sees 'nice challenge' in 2026, Marianne Vos prefers not to look too far ahead after tough months

Last season, the team achieved the ultimate objective by winning the Tour de France Femmes, both for the team and for winner Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, but that does not mean they are resting on that success.

On the contrary, preparations for the Tour have already begun, Tijssen explained. “Last year, we laid the blueprint, and from there, we only want to improve. The route is nice, with several tough stages. As defending champions, people now look at us differently, but we believe in the process we have started.”

Ferrand-Prévot herself is also fully committed again. “The Tour was the most important race we could win. It was a great team performance. I will do everything I can to defend my title. There is an individual time trial in the Tour, and I see that as a great challenge. Time trials suited me well in the past, but it is definitely a discipline where I can still improve.”

The French rider said she will therefore spend a lot of time on her time trial bike in the run-up to the race. “It’s a short effort, which in principle should suit me. I’m also really looking forward to the stage to Mont Ventoux. I’ve also marked the final stage near my home with a star.”

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Marianne Vos is also on the eve of a new season. On Monday, the Dutch rider shared on Instagram that she has been through a difficult period in her private life. “It’s been quiet here recently because the past months have been tough for my family and loved ones due to medical problems. It has put cycling and life into a different perspective,” Vos wrote.

Through the team, Vos said she is motivated for the upcoming spring. “We always go for the highest achievable results, and that won’t be any different this season. I hope to reach my best level and contribute to the team. If that succeeds, I’ll be satisfied.”

Winning a Classic is something special, Vos added. Everyone prepares as well as possible for those races and aims to be at their best there. She is particularly looking forward to Paris-Roubaix. “It’s chaos every year in Paris-Roubaix. I find it fantastic to race.”

Vos prefers not to look too far ahead, but she realises she could again play an important role in the Tour. “People’s eyes will be on us, because we have to defend our title. Honestly, I think Pauline is used to dealing with pressure. It’s part of top-level sport — you have to be able to cope with all kinds of external factors.”