Zoe Backstedt and the Dutch Femke Beuling are a couple, as the two women announced on Friday evening via Instagram. Last year, they were teammates at EF Education-TIBCO-SVB, but they will not be riding together in the same team next year.
Backstedt, who is of course also active in cyclo-cross this winter, currently rides for Canyon/SRAM. The 19-year-old talent competes with the world's best female cyclists on a weekly basis. The 23-year-old Beuling, who has not been active in cycling for very long after transitioning from speed skating, will be riding for VolkerWessels next season.
Beuling was a highly talented speed skater in the past, but had to say goodbye to the sport due to the onset of the phenomenon known as 'wobbly foot'. She then turned to cycling and has been part of the American team of Backstedt since April this year.
The couple's Instagram post includes the telling caption "I love you", along with three photos of the two women together. Wishing them all the happiness in the world!