Elisa Longo Borghini will win Paris-Roubaix in 2022, with the Classic and Grand Tour winner set to be teammate of Ireland’s Lara Gillespie (Photo: Pauline Ballet)
Elisa Longo Borghini has not spent much time celebrating her medal win at the UCI World Road Championships for Italy as she has signed a new contract with UAE Team ADQ.
Lara Gillespie will join the UAE-backed team in the Classics and Grand Tours next season, and the team says signing such a big name rider will take it to a whole new level.
Gillespie returned to road racing yesterday at the Vinche Chimay Vinche Pour Dames (1.1) in Belgium, finishing around 20 seconds ahead of Movistar’s New Junior World Road Race Champion winner Cat Ferguson. He finished in first place.
And starting next season, the young Irish rider will be in a position to learn a lot from Longo Borghini, who will lead his new team in classics, grand tours and other events.
“Elisa is more than just a world leader. She is the epitome of excellence in our sport,” said Melissa Moncada, president and team director. Her commitment to her career and consistent wins in both Grand Tours and one-day races show the spirit of a true champion.
โElisa brings a winning mentality and generous experience that will inspire and push our team to new heights. From our first conversation, Elisa and UAE Team ADQ have a deep understanding of vision and purpose. It was clear that we shared a consensus.
“We are dedicated to continuous improvement and development, and Elisa’s leadership will be the driving force behind our future success. Together, we will achieve greatness and inspire others in the process. Ready to inspire people.โ
Longo Borghini said he was attracted to the team he is joining on a three-year contract because they are improving each season and have big plans for the next few years.
“This suits my personality. I’m an ambitious person, so I’m really looking forward to aiming for many races with this team. I want to defend my title at the Giro d’Italia and win the Tour de Italia. We aim to win in France and one in the Ardennes.
โAs a world-class rider, I also aim to be a role model and encourage a healthy lifestyle among the female community in the UAE.โ