The Classic Lorient unfolded over a demanding 165 kilometres parcours in Brittany, featuring rolling terrain and repeated climbs that steadily wore down the peloton. Central to the day were three ascents of the Côte du Lezot, a short but sharp climb near the finish in Plouay, which acted as the launchpad for the key attacks and shaped the outcome of the race. Team Picnic PostNL played a central role in the action throughout the day, animating the race from start to finish with several riders involved in the several moves. An initial break of 27 riders went clear at the beginning of the race, with both Franziska Koch and Josie Nelson present for the team.
From that group, Nelson pushed on as part of a reduced trio that led the race heading into the final 30 kilometres. She fought hard on the Côte du Lezot but was forced to let her companions go with 28 kilometres remaining. As the peloton began to close in, the race reignited on the second ascent of the Côte du Lezot. De Vries launched an attack, with Koch immediately reacting. Together with Gasparini, they formed a strong chase behind the two leaders, ensuring Team Picnic PostNL remained on the offensive deep into the finale. After the final climb of the day, a reduced peloton formed, setting the stage for a reduced bunch sprint in Plouay. Pfeiffer Georgi led the team home in 7th place, with an impressive and combative Koch finishing close behind in 8th.
After the race, Koch said: “It was a great race. We played our cards well by first being in the early break with Josie and me, and later having Josie up the road in a group of three. We looked for opportunities as soon as Josie was brought back. In the end, my little break didn’t stay away, but it was really enjoyable to race aggressively and have control over the race.”
