Danish cyclist Jonas Vingegaard, a two-time Tour de France winner, has expressed his aspiration to participate in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
“I would really like to race in the Olympics. I’ve told Danish national coach Anders Lund that if he wants me to go, I’m ready,” Danish news agency Ritzau quoted Vingegaard as saying on Wednesday, when the champion received a grand welcome ceremony in the Copenhagen City Hall.
“However, it’s not a route that suits me perfectly. There are many talented Danish cyclists, so he might not select me.”
These comments shed light on the fact that while Vingegaard is eager to represent Denmark at the Olympics, he remains realistic about the chances, given the challenging nature of the route and the depth of talent within the Danish cycling team, according to analysis of Danish media.
The cycling route of the Paris Olympic Games is set to challenge the riders with its 273 kilometers and a total of 2,800 meters of ascent.
“It’s wonderful to hear Jonas’ enthusiasm to be a part of the Olympics. As much as I’d love to see our Tour de France champion don the national colors, I cannot guarantee him a spot yet,” Danish newspaper Ekstra Bladet quoted Lund as saying.
“When it comes to the Olympics, the route determines everything. Jonas’ win in the Tour de France doesn’t directly secure him a spot. The level of Danish cycling is soaring, and securing a place in such competitions is getting increasingly competitive.”
Vingegaard, the first Dane to have won the Tour de France twice, has not represented Denmark in major international competitions such as the European Championships, World Championships or Olympics.
