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Backstedt eyes Tour de France Femmes after double British titles

BBC Sport •
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Zoe Backstedt secured double titles at British Road Championships, sparking her goal to race Tour de France Femmes in August. She claimed the elite road race and time trial crowns, marking a breakthrough in her under‑23 career. The victories place her among Britain’s rising talents and set a clear target for the season’s marquee event.

Cycling runs in her blood. Father Magnus Backstedt rode the Tour seven times between 1998 and 2008, winning a stage on debut, while mother claimed the British road title years earlier. Sister Elynor now competes for UAE Team ADQ, showing the family’s depth. Zoe credits that lineage for shaping her ambition and work ethic.

Backstedt says the recent wins make “the grind worth it” and fuels her preparation for the eight‑day race in August. A strong performance could cement her place on a WorldTour squad and raise her profile ahead of next season’s contracts. She will aim to translate domestic dominance into a credible showing on cycling’s biggest stage.

The British federation will watch her progress closely, hoping her ascent inspires more women to pursue elite racing. With the Tour de France Femmes attracting record audiences, Backstedt’s participation could boost UK viewership and sponsor interest. Her family’s legacy and recent form position her as a compelling narrative for the sport’s growth this summer.