'I wish I didn't have the crash but I'm optimistic' – Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney back in contention at Ardennes Classics after Milan-San Remo fall

Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney, the Canyon-SRAM rider, has declared herself back in contention for the Ardennes Classics following a crash at Milan-San Remo. Despite the earlier setback, the Polish star is now targeting Liège-Bastogne-Liège, aiming to complete an impressive Ardennes triple, having previously secured victories at Amstel Gold Race and La Flèche Wallonne. Her optimism suggests a rapid recovery and a firm focus on the remaining spring challenges.

This renewed ambition is significant for Niewiadoma-Phinney, a rider often lauded for her consistency but sometimes lacking the decisive punch for outright victory. Her existing wins in Amstel Gold (2019) and Flèche Wallonne (2024) already place her among an elite group, making the prospect of adding Liège-Bastogne-Liège a career-defining goal. For Canyon-SRAM, her strong form is crucial, especially as the women's peloton continues to see increasing depth and competition in these prestigious one-day races.

Niewiadoma-Phinney's pursuit of the Ardennes triple is a testament to her resilience. In a sport where 'optimism' often masks lingering pain, her track record suggests this is more than just wishful thinking.