Dutch Dynamo Pauliena Rooijakkers Joins UAE Team ADQ: A New Chapter Awaits
In the tumultuous world of professional cycling, few stories are as compelling as that of Pauliena Rooijakkers. The 32-year-old Dutch cyclist, who recently clinched a podium finish at the 2024 Tour de France Femmes, is set to embark on a new journey with UAE Team ADQ. As Rooijakkers transitions from Fenix-Deceuninck, cycling enthusiasts are buzzing with anticipation for what this powerhouse rider will bring to her new team.
A Career in Full Gear
Rooijakkers is no stranger to the highs and lows of competitive cycling. Over her career, she has established herself as one of the most consistent general classification (GC) performers in the peloton, consistently securing top-10 finishes in all three Grand Tours. Notably, her recent performance in the 2024 Tour de France Femmes stands out as a crowning achievement, where she finished third after an exhilarating battle up Alpe d’Huez against overall winner Demi Vollering.
This podium finish not only highlighted Rooijakkers’ climbing skills but also brought local and international attention to her ability to race against cycling’s elite. Not to be overshadowed, her team, Fenix-Deceuninck, celebrated a successful campaign with victories in both the Best Young Rider classification and a stage win by teammate Puck Pieterse.
A New Chapter in the UAE
Transitioning to a new team is both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience, and Rooijakkers is fully aware of the stakes. Speaking about her move to UAE Team ADQ, she noted the team’s professional structure, ambitious goals, and a collective drive for victory, underscored by the presence of renowned leaders like Elisa Longo Borghini. “The vision, the way they work, and their attention to detail convinced me that this was the right place to continue my career,” Rooijakkers expressed, emphasizing her keen interest in both teammate dynamics and personal development.
Rooijakkers sees herself as a dual asset: a dedicated support rider for her teammates and a contender capable of showcasing her own strengths—especially in mountainous stages. “My main goal is to support my teammates in major races, like the Giro and the Tour, while also focusing on my own consistency and personal performances,” she stated with determination.
What Lies Ahead
For cycling fans, Rooijakkers’ addition to UAE Team ADQ signals a formidable enhancement to the squad’s GC and stage racing abilities. Her proven track record of resilience and performance will undoubtedly equip the team to better compete against cycling giants, such as Visma-Lease a Bike and FDJ-Suez. With Rooijakkers in their corner, UAE Team ADQ may soon realize ambitious aspirations that extend beyond mere participation.
As cyclists and supporters alike gear up for an exciting season ahead, Rooijakkers is a name to watch. Her journey is not just about personal triumph but a testament to the evolving landscape of women’s cycling, where teamwork and individual brilliance go hand in hand.
Final Thoughts
At the intersection of determination and opportunity, Pauliena Rooijakkers is ready to make waves in her new role. Let’s rally behind her as she sets out to conquer new summits—both for herself and her team. An inspiring story of strength, ambition, and camaraderie awaits us in the coming season!
Original article: Cycling News
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