Interview Sofia Balaeva

In her first international season on the elite level, Sofia Balaeva inmmediatly climbed the podium. She finished 3th in a Spanish race and set notable results in the other races as well. The young Russian is still new in cycling so she still has a lot of potential to grow to a higher level. In our interview you read about a rider who enjoys climbing and who got the spark for the sport during the Tour de France. The 22 years old tells you about this and more personal things through the following questions.

You finished on the podium already in your first international season as elite rider. How did you feel during that race?

It was amazing. I really wanted to prove myself. I wanted to show everyone that I can compete too. I felt good during the race and at the right moment we attacked the mountain, which put me on the podium.

What are your qualities as a rider and as a person?

As a rider and as a person, I am responsible and purposeful. I am ready to help in any situation, both in sports and in everyday life. If I set a goal for myself, I will do whatever it takes to achieve that goal.

What are your ambitions in the sport?

I strive of becoming a professional cyclist. I want to get on the team. I am good at mountain riding and I want this skill to bring me many achievements in cycling.

How did the sport change you as a person?

Sports provide an opportunity to improve. Cycling taught me hard work and perseverance in achieving my goals. The ability to overcome difficulties and not give up when setbacks occur. Cycling also taught me how to work as a team, resolve conflicts and achieve common goals with the team. And, of course, cycling made me disciplined.

Who or what inspired you to take part in cycling races?

I’ve been riding a bike since childhood, my dad suggested I try it. As I got older, I really fell in love with cycling. In 2023, I watched the women’s Tour de France and admired every woman who took part in this Grand Tour. My most memorable memories were Kasia Niewiadoma and Ane Santesteban in Stage 7. They are small in body type (like me) and then I believed that by being small like them, I too could achieve such big achievements.

Where can we cheer for you in the coming months?

Next month my Russian championship starts, it will be held in the city of Murom. After which I would really like to return to racing in Europe. And I would also like to go to the European Championship U23.

What is the race that you dream to win?

Of course, I dream of winning the Grand Tour. But I’m a realist and I understand that I still have to work hard for this.

What are your biggest passions outside cycling?

Besides cycling, like many others, I like to watch TV series and read books. When I’m at home, I like to cook something delicious. I also really love shopping, it relaxes me and lifts my spirits.