Pregnant French cyclist Aude Biannic confesses to competing in Paris-Roubaix race
In a rare move, French cyclist Aude Biannic is making a comeback to the world of professional cycling, participating in the Tour de France Femmes with her son Noah by her side. Biannic, a long-term domestique for Annemiek van Vleuten, is using the prestigious event as an opportunity to support her team and showcase her determination.
Biannic's journey back to the sport began in November 2022 when she gave birth to her son. Despite the physical demands and challenges that come with pregnancy, Biannic chose to continue training, following in the footsteps of fellow riders like Lizzie Deignan and Ellen van Dijk who have competed at the highest level while pregnant.
Interestingly, Biannic discovered her pregnancy after racing in the 2024 Paris-Roubaix Femmes and Tour of Flanders. Despite this unexpected news, she continued to train, albeit without the same intensity, and rode her gravel bike near her home in Quimper during her pregnancy.
The Tour de France Femmes, which started in Biannic's home region of Brittany, marks a significant milestone in her comeback. Biannic is not only racing for her team but is also inspiring other female cyclists to return to professional cycling after becoming mothers.
Biannic is not alone in her efforts at the Tour de France Femmes. She is supporting Liane Lippert and Mareille Meijering, as well as Movistar, who are hunting for stage success at the event. However, the race has not been without its challenges. Marlen Reusser, another competitor, had an early abandon due to unspecified reasons.
Biannic's story adds to the growing list of female cyclists who have raced major Classics while pregnant, a feat that is still relatively rare in the world of professional cycling. While Lizzie Deignan's career offers the most detailed publicly known example, Biannic's comeback serves as a testament to the resilience and dedication of female cyclists.
As Biannic continues to race at the Tour de France Femmes, she is not only showcasing her own determination but also inspiring a new generation of female cyclists who aspire to balance motherhood with a career in professional cycling.
References:
- The Guardian
- Cycling Weekly
- VeloNews
- CyclingTips
Road cycling is a significant part of the Tour de France Femmes, with Aude Biannic and others participating, demonstrating their passion for sports. By making a comeback to professional cycling after giving birth, Biannic sets an inspiring example for female cyclists, highlighting the intersection of sports and motherhood.
