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Kasia Niewiadoma’s rise in the world of professional cycling is a filled with dedication, resilience, and passion for the sport. From her early days in Poland to becoming one of the most versatile and respected cyclists in the world, Kasia has continuously evolved, overcoming challenges and making a name for herself in a highly competitive field.
Early Career
Kasia Niewiadoma was born on September 29, 1994, in Limanowa, Poland. Growing up in a country where cycling was not as prominent as in other European nations, Niewiadoma’s journey to professional cycling was anything but conventional. Her talent was evident from a young age, and she began to make waves in local races, quickly drawing attention with her natural ability on the bike.
Her big break came when she joined the Polish team CCC Polsat Polkowice in 2013. At just 18 years old, she was thrust into the world of professional cycling, where she had to quickly adapt to the demands of competing against seasoned professionals. Her time with CCC was crucial in her development, as she gained valuable experience in stage races and one-day events, often supporting the team’s leaders while learning the ropes of professional cycling.
Kasia’s potential did not go unnoticed, and in 2015, she made a significant move to the Rabobank-Liv team (later known as WM3 Pro Cycling and CCC-Liv). This transition marked a turning point in her career. The Rabobank team was one of the strongest in women’s cycling, boasting a roster that included some of the biggest names in the sport, such as Marianne Vos and Anna van der Breggen.
Joining Rabobank provided the happy Polish rider with the opportunity to develop under the guidance of experienced riders and coaches. She quickly integrated into the team, showing her versatility in both stage races and classics. Her role often involved working for the team’s leaders, but she also began to carve out her niche as a climber and all-rounder, capable of delivering strong performances in a variety of terrains.
Breakthroughs with Rabobank
Her time with Rabobank was instrumental in honing her skills and building her confidence as a rider. She gained a reputation for her consistency and resilience, often finishing in the top ranks of races and contributing to the team’s overall success. Her ability to perform in both hilly classics and stage races made her an invaluable asset to the team.
One of her early standout performances came in 2015 when she won the Trofeo Alfredo Binda, one of the most prestigious one-day races in women’s cycling. This victory was a significant milestone in her career, as it marked her first major win at the WorldTour level and established her as a rider to watch in the peloton.
Over the next few years, Niewiadoma continued to build on her success, consistently finishing in the top 10 of major races, including the Giro Rosa, La Flèche Wallonne, and the Amstel Gold Race. Her performances earned her recognition as one of the most promising young riders in the sport, and she quickly became a leader within the team.
In 2018, she made the decision to join Canyon//SRAM Racing, a move that would allow her to take on more leadership responsibilities and continue her development as a rider. The move to Canyon//SRAM was a bold step, as it placed her in a team where she would be expected to lead in major races and deliver results consistently.
Personal Life and Partnership with Taylor Phinney
Beyond her professional achievements, Niewiadoma’s personal life has also garnered attention, particularly her relationship with former professional cyclist Taylor Phinney. Phinney, a retired American cyclist who had a successful career of his own, has been a significant presence in her life, both as a partner and as a source of inspiration.
The couple met through the cycling community, and their shared passion for the sport has been a cornerstone of their relationship. Phinney, known for his artistic interests and unconventional approach to life, has often spoken about how her drive and determination inspire him. Their relationship has been marked by mutual support, with Phinney often seen at races cheering for his girlfriend, and she is drawing strength from Phinney’s experiences and insights.
Living together in Andorra, a popular training base for professional cyclists due to its mountainous terrain and high altitude, the couple enjoys a balanced life that combines their love for cycling with other shared interests, such as art and music. This balance has been crucial for her, allowing her to maintain her focus and motivation while also enjoying the personal aspects of her life.
Phinney’s retirement in 2019 allowed him to focus more on his artistic pursuits, but he remains deeply connected to the cycling world through his relationship with Kasia. The couple’s dynamic is often described as supportive and complementary, with each encouraging the other to pursue their passions both on and off the bike.
Recent Successes and the Future
In recent years, Kasia has continued to solidify her status as one of the top riders in the women’s peloton. Her 2023 season was particularly successful, with a standout performance in the Tour de France Femmes, where she finished third overall, showcasing her climbing abilities and consistency across the demanding stages.
The 2024 season has seen Niewiadoma return to the top step of the podium with a victory at La Flèche Wallonne, ending a five-year drought without an individual win. This victory was especially meaningful for Kasia, as it came after years of near-misses and hard-fought battles. “I really hope that, with this victory, I have inspired a lot of people who are pursuing their dreams,” she said after the race, reflecting on the perseverance that had brought her to this moment.
As she continues to compete at the highest levels, Niewiadoma remains focused on her long-term goals, including winning a Grand Tour and continuing to inspire the next generation of cyclists. Her leadership within Canyon//SRAM Racing has been instrumental in the team’s success, and she continues to be a mentor and role model for younger riders.
Kasia’s career has been characterized by steady growth, resilience in the face of challenges, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her ability to perform consistently across different types of races, combined with her strong work ethic and positive attitude, makes her one of the most respected figures in women’s cycling.
The 2024 Tour de France Femmes: A New Chapter
Kasia’s journey took another significant turn during the 2024 Tour de France Femmes. In a dramatic Stage 5, where Demi Vollering, the race leader, was caught in a crash that cost her the yellow jersey, Niewiadoma seized the opportunity to take over the race lead. This moment was a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and it placed her in a position to potentially win one of the most prestigious titles in women’s cycling.
Taking over the yellow jersey highlights her ability to stay focused and seize opportunities, even in the unpredictable and often chaotic environment of a Grand Tour.
As the 2024 Tour de France Femmes continues, all eyes will be on Kasia Niewiadoma as she navigates the remaining stages, balancing the pressure of leading the race with the tactical challenges that come with defending the yellow jersey. Whether she ultimately secures the overall victory or not, Kasia’s performance in this Tour is yet another chapter in an already illustrious career, and it underscores her place among the elite in women’s cycling.