'I’d rather have one real standout result than three podiums' – Puck Pieterse keeps eyes trained on top step as Ardennes campaign continues with defence at La Flèche Wallonne

Puck Pieterse, the Fenix-Premier Tech rider, has set her sights firmly on victory at La Flèche Wallonne, expressing a preference for "one real standout result than three podiums." This declaration comes as she prepares to defend her title in the Ardennes, having previously achieved a podium sweep across the trio of events last year. Her focus is clear: the top step, despite acknowledging that the "overall level has increased" in the women's peloton.

Pieterse's ambition highlights the evolving landscape of women's cycling, where multi-discipline stars like herself are increasingly common. Her success last year, securing podium finishes in all three Ardennes Classics, demonstrated remarkable consistency, yet her current desire for outright victory reflects the heightened competitive pressure and the prestige associated with a major classic win. It’s a natural progression for a rider of her calibre, transitioning from consistent high-performer to dominant force.

This single-minded pursuit of victory, rather than mere consistency, is a classic sign of a champion truly coming into their own. The peloton has been warned.