'I was just not strong enough' – Pauline Ferrand-Prévot bettered by Demi Vollering's Kwaremont power to finish second in Tour of Flanders again

Pauline Ferrand-Prévot secured a commendable second place at the Tour of Flanders, unable to match Demi Vollering's decisive power on the Kwaremont. This marks the French multi-discipline star's second consecutive runner-up finish at De Ronde. The result has also opened the door to a potential Paris-Roubaix debut next week, particularly with Marianne Vos's confirmed absence, suggesting a strategic shift for the INEOS Grenadiers rider.

This Flanders performance underscores Ferrand-Prévot's consistent, albeit often second-best, form in the Spring Classics, a stark contrast to her dominant off-road career. Her repeated near-misses at Flanders highlight both her immense talent and the formidable competition she faces from road specialists. A potential Roubaix start would be a fascinating pivot, given her cross-country and cyclocross prowess, and could signal a serious intent to add a cobbled monument to her already glittering palmarès.

Ultimately, another second place is a testament to her enduring class, yet it also perpetuates the narrative of the 'always a bridesmaid' in these particular road monuments. Roubaix, however, offers a fresh canvas for a rider who thrives on chaos.