French sprinter aims to build on strong season with two more years in the Team
Lidl-Trek is pleased to announce that French sprinter Clara Copponi has signed a two-year contract extension, keeping her with the Team through the end of 2027.
Since joining Lidl-Trek, Copponi has balanced her role between leading out Elisa Balsamo and seizing her own opportunities in the sprints. The 2025 season began in perfect fashion, with Copponi winning the Schwalbe Women’s One-Day Classic in style, celebrating with her iconic victory pose. Her second win of the year came at the GP Mazda Schelkens in Belgium, where she outsprinted a small group after a demanding, attritional race.
I love to give everything to help my teammates and to take the leadership when I have the opportunity.
“I’m really happy to extend my contract for two more years with the Team,” said Clara Copponi. “The last few years were really special, with the Olympics at home, and this year I was totally focused on the road. I was able to make progress throughout the season, win two races, and the season isn’t finished yet. I’m grateful for the support I have from all the Team and my teammates.
“The atmosphere with everyone is so good—I love to give everything to help my teammates and to take the leadership when I have the opportunity. For the next two years, I really want to show that I have my place in the big races like the Tour de France, to help the team, and in Paris-Roubaix and other Classics, where I want to be racing with the best riders.”
“Clara’s victory at the start of the year was a big boost for her confidence and for the whole team,” said Luca Guercilena, Lidl-Trek General Manager. “Getting that first win early in the season is always important to build momentum. Clara has shown good progression over the winter and through this season. She’s been a valuable part of the lead-out for Balsamo, but has also proven that when she gets the chance to sprint for herself, she can deliver. With the Team’s continued support, I believe she can keep progressing and achieve even more over the next two years.”