Longo Borghini's career in cycling started early, inspired by her older brother Paolo. He has been the most influential person in her career. Her family has a strong sporting background. Her mother, Giudina Dal Sasso, represented Italy in cross-country skiing at the Olympic Winter Games. Her father provided technical support for the Italian cross-country ski team.

Club and Team

Currently, Longo Borghini is part of the Trek-Segafredo team based in the United States. She balances her professional cycling career with her occupation as a police athlete. She is fluent in both English and Italian, which helps her navigate international competitions and interactions.

Significant Achievements

One of Longo Borghini's notable achievements came in 2015 when she became the first female cyclist representing Italy to win the Tour of Flanders for Women in Belgium. This victory marked a significant milestone in her career.

Challenges and Injuries

Longo Borghini faced significant challenges during her career. In 2013, she broke her pelvis after a crash at the Italian Championships. The injury required 100 stitches and left her with a 20-centimetre scar on her stomach. Despite this setback, she competed in the World Championships in Firenze, Italy, just four months later and finished eighth in the road race.

Superstitions and Rituals

Longo Borghini has a unique ritual that she follows before every race. She takes a stuffed toy wolf named 'Wolfie' with her to every competition. This ritual provides her with comfort and a sense of familiarity amidst the pressures of racing.

Pivotal Moments

A pivotal moment in Longo Borghini's career came after she secured bronze in the women's road race at the 2012 World Championships in Valkenburg, Netherlands. This achievement convinced her to pursue cycling professionally. She made an agreement with her parents to focus on cycling for three years and give it her all.

Controversies

In 2019, Longo Borghini was involved in an incident at the Driedaagse Brugge-De Panne race in Belgium. She crashed with British rider Elizabeth Banks and was filmed throwing Banks' bike away in frustration. Longo Borghini later apologised for her actions, stating it was done in the heat of the moment.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Longo Borghini aims to continue competing at high levels and achieving more milestones in her cycling career. Her dedication and passion for the sport remain unwavering as she strives for further success.

Elisa Longo Borghini's journey is marked by significant achievements, challenges, and moments of personal growth. Her story continues to inspire many aspiring cyclists around the world.