Ellen van Dijk has been a key figure in women’s cycling for twenty years. As a multiple-time world champion and one of the most experienced riders in the peloton, she has learned many important lessons. She has pushed her limits and grown both as an athlete and as a person. What are the five most valuable lessons she has learned? Ellen shares her insights and looks ahead to the future.
1. Perseverance: Success takes time
When Ellen looks back on her career, one moment stands out the most. Her second time trial world title in 2021, eight years after her first. “That was a very emotional moment for me. Many times, I was close but just could not win. Second, third, always missing out. When I finally won again, it was a huge relief and a reward for all the hard work.”
That victory taught her an important lesson. Success does not always come right away. “In sport and in life, things do not always happen when you want them to. But if you keep believing and working hard, great things can still happen.”
2. Embracing imperfection: Learning to let go
As a young rider, Ellen wanted to control every detail. Every training session and every meal had to be perfect. But over time, she realized that was not the best way. “My partner Benjamin taught me that I do not need to do everything 100% perfectly. If you do 80% well and accept that some things will not go as planned, you will go much further than if you get stuck trying to make everything perfect.”
This mindset helped her race with more confidence and less stress. “You need to stay flexible and learn to handle setbacks. This way, you improve and enjoy the sport more.”
3. Team spirit: Winning together
Cycling may seem like an individual sport, but Ellen believes a strong team is essential. “When you feel comfortable and valued in a team, something special happens. You push each other to perform at your best. I feel that most in team time trials. It is my favourite discipline. Winning together as a team is an amazing feeling.”
Over the years, Ellen has taken on a leadership role in her teams. “I try to share my experience with younger riders and help them grow. Cycling is not just about riding fast. It is about teamwork, tactics, and knowing how to use your energy wisely. A strong team spirit can make a big difference.”
4. The importance of a good work-life balance
“Being a professional cyclist is not just a job. It is a lifestyle,” Ellen says. “Everything in my life is connected to cycling. It is a 24/7 commitment, but because I love it, it feels natural.”
Since becoming a mother, Ellen has learned the value of balance. “My family and friends are the foundation of everything. When that foundation is strong, I can perform at my best. Over the years, I have learned that having a strong personal support system is key to success in cycling.”
She also credits the team for helping her continue racing as a mother. “I thought I would have to stop when I became a mother, but thanks to Lidl-Trek, I was able to keep racing while balancing family life. That support has been invaluable.”
5. Success does not guarantee happiness
In 2013, Ellen became world time trial champion for the first time. It was the biggest achievement of her career, but it did not bring her the happiness she expected. “I always thought success would make me happy, but I learned that is not true. What truly makes me happy is doing what I love with passion. The process, the progress, and the daily motivation to improve are what bring real satisfaction.”
This is something she wants younger riders to understand. “Do not focus only on one goal or one victory. Enjoy the journey. Work hard, stay true to yourself, and find what really excites you in the sport.”
The future: Continuing the journey
“I still feel motivated and want to get the best out of myself. I know I can bring a lot to my team, and I still love the sport.”
After her racing career, she hopes to stay involved in cycling. “I do not see myself becoming a sports director right away, but I am very interested in coaching. I love sharing knowledge and helping others grow. This is the world where I belong, and I am not ready to leave it.”
Her journey is not over yet.