Lotte Kopecky named captain for Belgian women's cycling team

Lotte Kopecky has been named captain of the Belgian national women's cycling team for the upcoming World Championships in Montréal. The 30-year-old, a former road world champion in 2023 and 2024, aims to secure a third title, a feat previously achieved by her father-in-law, Eddy Merckx, in 1974.

Belgian technical commissioner Ludwig Willems expressed confidence in Kopecky's form, noting her recent successes in Milano–Sanremo and the Vuelta España Femenina. She will be supported by teammates Shari Bossuyt, Justine Ghekiere, Julie Van De Velde, Margot Vanpachtenbeke, and time trial specialist Lotte Claes.

While Kopecky and Claes will compete in the time trial on September 20, the Belgian federation has decided not to field a six-woman squad for the team relay due to financial and logistical constraints. The championships also feature a strong Spanish contingent, led by Mavi Garcia and Paula Blasi.