Trofeo Oro in Euro: Elisa Longo Borghini solos for second career victory into Cinquale as UAE Team ADQ sweeps podium

Elisa Longo Borghini (Lidl-Trek) secured her second career victory at Trofeo Oro in Euro, soloing into Cinquale. The Italian champion’s dominant performance was further underscored by UAE Team ADQ’s impressive showing, with Karlijn Swinkels taking second place and Dominika Włodarczyk rounding out the podium in third. A fourth UAE Team ADQ rider also successfully held off cyclocross star Puck Pieterse, highlighting the team’s strength in depth at the Italian one-day race.

This victory marks a significant return to form for Longo Borghini, who has faced a challenging start to the season, including a bout of bronchitis that forced her withdrawal from Strade Bianche. Her ability to solo to victory against a strong field, particularly with a rival team swarming the podium, demonstrates her enduring class and resilience. For UAE Team ADQ, the near-sweep confirms their growing prowess in the women's peloton, signaling their intent to challenge the established powerhouses in upcoming classics.

Longo Borghini's solo effort, while impressive, served as a stark reminder that even the most cohesive team can be outmaneuvered by a rider truly on her day. Sometimes, sheer individual strength still trumps numerical advantage.