From Olympic Ice to the Pro Peloton: Sandrine Tas Makes Her Cycling Debut

Sandrine Tas's Professional Road Cycling Debut

According to Главком: Belgian speed skater Sandrine Tas launched her professional road cycling career on April 22, 2026, following her participation in the Winter Olympic Games. Making her first appearance for the Lotto Intermarché Ladies team at the La Flèche Wallonne Femmes race, Tas finished in 57th place. She crossed the line 3 minutes and 35 seconds behind the race winner, Dutch world number one Demi Vollering.

At the time of her cycling debut, Tas was 30 years old. Just months earlier, in February 2026, she had competed at the Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. There, she placed fourth in the 5000-meter event, missing a bronze medal by a mere 0.13 seconds. She also finished seventh in the 3000 meters, 13th in the mass start, and sixth in the team pursuit.

Transition to Cycling

After concluding her skating season, Tas signed a contract with Lotto Intermarché Ladies. She had previously gained cycling experience in 2022, riding for the Ukrainian Lviv Cycling Team at amateur and semi-professional levels. Reflecting on her switch to cycling, Sandrine Tas remarked:

“After finishing the season, I took a short break to rest and recover. From the first weekend, I was watching the races on television, and it definitely makes you want to be there yourself, in the peloton.” - Sandrine Tas

Sandrine Tas's entry into professional road cycling marks a significant career shift as she moves from one demanding endurance sport to another. Her transition is part of a growing trend where elite athletes successfully pivot to new disciplines later in their careers. Her extensive high-level competition experience from winter sports could provide a unique advantage in her new athletic pursuit.