'I'm sure about myself' - Pauline Ferrand-Prévot carries Paris-Roubaix and Tour de France winning confidence into Strade Bianche

Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, the reigning UCI Gravel World Champion, has declared robust confidence heading into Strade Bianche, citing her recent victories at Paris-Roubaix and the Tour de France as foundational. While the latter two triumphs were in the virtual, e-sports realm, PFP asserts this success has bolstered her self-belief for the upcoming WorldTour season opener in Tuscany. The Canyon-SRAM rider is a significant contender, having previously finished second at Strade Bianche in 2021.

This pronouncement arrives as the elite women's peloton gears up for the first major one-day classic of the 2024 season. PFP's career has been a fascinating tapestry of multi-discipline success, including road, cyclocross, and mountain biking world titles. Her recent focus on gravel and mountain bike disciplines, coupled with her virtual racing prowess, indicates a rider constantly seeking new avenues for competition and self-improvement. Her 2021 Strade podium finish underscores her capability on the white roads, making her a perennial threat.

Ultimately, whether virtual victories translate directly to tangible grit on the Tuscan gravel remains to be seen. Confidence is a powerful tool, but the dust of Siena has a habit of humbling even the most decorated champions.