At just 18 years of age, Henrik Pedersen surprised everyone by achieving an impressive victory in the men’s road race at the European Under-23 Championships. Pedersen initiated a breakaway with two opponents early in the race and, with a final attack after 136km of competition, the Danish rider crossed the finish line alone.
After the arrival and the presentation of the rainbow jersey, Henrik Pedersen spoke briefly about his background and how he envisions his future in professional cycling following his victory at the European Championship.
Who is Henrik Pedersen
“I come from a small town about thirty kilometers south of Herning. I stopped playing soccer and got addicted to video games. My dad forced me to start riding a bike,” explained the Danish cyclist. “He didn’t want me to get so bored, gain weight, and just sit in front of the computer. After I got on the racing bike for the first time, I realized, I continued, and now look: here I am, with this beautiful jersey!”
Future with UNO-X Pro Cycling Team
Next year, Pedersen will join the Uno-X Pro Cycling Team, and the young rider has high hopes for the future. “Actually, I think I’m more like Mads Pedersen. Of course, we also share the same last name,” he said. “Just like him, I also have a good sprint finish. Which race would I most like to win one day among the professionals? I don’t need to think too much about it: Paris-Roubaix.”