Elise Chabbey defies all odds to win Strade Bianche

Elise Chabbey of Canyon-SRAM Racing secured a stunning victory at Strade Bianche, outmanoeuvring pre-race favourites Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney (Canyon-SRAM) and Elisa Longo Borghini (Lidl-Trek) in a thrilling finale. The Swiss rider launched a decisive attack in the closing kilometres, holding off her more decorated rivals to cross the line alone in Siena's Piazza del Campo, marking the biggest win of her career.

This triumph is particularly significant given Chabbey's previous role as a domestique and her consistent, yet often unrewarded, presence in major races. While Niewiadoma-Phinney's second place continues her remarkable run of podium finishes at Strade Bianche, Chabbey's elevation from support rider to solo victor reshapes the narrative for Canyon-SRAM, demonstrating their depth beyond their established stars. It also highlights the unpredictable nature of the white roads, where grit often trumps pure power.

Chabbey’s win is a testament to tactical acumen and perseverance. A former rower and medical student, she’s proven that sometimes, the best strategy is simply to keep pushing when others hesitate – a valuable lesson for many.