At just 18 years old, Slovakian cyclist Viktória Chladoňová has made a remarkable impact at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, Rwanda. Competing in the inaugural standalone women’s under-23 category, Chladoňová secured silver medals in both the time trial and road race events, making her the youngest rider in the field to achieve such a feat.
Chladoňová’s journey to the World Championships podium began with a strong performance in the 22.6 km time trial.
Despite the challenging hilly course, she completed the race in 32:47.01, earning her a silver medal behind Great Britain’s Zoe Bäckstedt, who clinched the gold with a time of 30:56.16.
Building on her time trial success, Chladoňová delivered another impressive performance in the under-23 road race. She finished second, showcasing her versatility and determination across.
The Kigali course presented unique challenges, including high altitudes and intense heat. However, Chladoňová embraced these conditions, stating, “With the heat, it wasn’t that bad because the sun at one point wasn’t shining so much. With the altitude, I don’t have a problem at all, so I think it was to my advantage”
Chladoňová’s achievements in Kigali have solidified her status as a rising star in women’s cycling. Her ability to excel in both time trial and road race events at such a young age suggests a promising future ahead.
