'I'm in pain, my legs are sore but I can't have any regrets' - Elisa Longo Borghini gives strong performance but settles for fourth at Strade Bianche

Elisa Longo Borghini delivered a characteristically robust performance at Strade Bianche, leading the race over the iconic Santa Caterina climb and into Siena. However, despite her powerful effort, the Italian champion ultimately finished fourth, being overtaken in the final metres before the Piazza del Campo. Her strong showing, though not a podium, solidified her reputation as a formidable contender in the spring classics, demonstrating both grit and tactical acumen on the challenging Tuscan gravel.

This result is particularly poignant given Longo Borghini's consistent presence at the sharp end of Strade Bianche, a race she won in 2017 and has frequently podiumed in. Her aggressive racing style, often characterized by long-range attacks and relentless pursuit, makes her a fan favourite and a perennial threat. While fourth place might sting for a rider of her calibre, it underscores her enduring form and ability to animate races, setting the stage for a compelling classics campaign as she continues to chase major victories.

To lead over Santa Caterina and still miss the podium is a bitter pill, yet Longo Borghini's "no regrets" stance is entirely fitting. In a race decided by millimetres and raw power, sometimes the legs simply don't have that final, decisive kick.