In a surprising turn of events, Julian Alaphilippe, the celebrated French cyclist and two-time world champion, has announced his departure from Soudal-Quick Step after an illustrious decade-long tenure. Starting in the 2025 season, Alaphilippe will don the colors of the Swiss-based Tudor Pro Cycling Team, marking a significant shift in his professional journey.
Alaphilippe’s decision to join Tudor Pro Cycling, a team currently competing in the ProTeam category—the second tier of professional cycling—has raised eyebrows in the cycling community. This move comes after a period of speculation regarding his future, especially following reported tensions with Soudal-Quick Step’s manager, Patrick Lefevere. Despite these challenges, Alaphilippe showcased his enduring talent by securing a stage victory in the 2024 Giro d’Italia, reaffirming his position as one of the sport’s premier athletes.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new chapter, Alaphilippe stated, “After more than ten years with the same team, it was time for a change. I liked the Tudor Pro Cycling project from the beginning. I saw the team arrive and develop, and I also know some of the riders and staff members. What better way to mark a turning point in my career than with a new and ambitious project?”
Tudor Pro Cycling, under the leadership of former Olympic and world time trial champion Fabian Cancellara, has been making strategic moves to bolster its roster. The recent acquisition of Swiss rider Marc Hirschi, known for his prowess in one-day races, complements Alaphilippe’s strengths. Cancellara expressed his excitement about the team’s new direction, stating, “Having Julian and Marc Hirschi as two leaders is an opportunity. They will take pressure off of each other but also make each other stronger. Julian brings panache, Marc brings coolness. Both can win at the highest level and will embody our racing spirit, which will have us taking on responsibility in some of the biggest races.”
Alaphilippe’s tenure with Soudal-Quick Step was marked by numerous accolades, including victories in prestigious races such as Milan–San Remo and multiple stage wins in the Tour de France. However, recent seasons have presented challenges, with injuries and a notable crash during the 2022 Liège-Bastogne-Liège impacting his performance. His move to Tudor Pro Cycling is seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate his career and mentor emerging talents within the team.
Looking ahead, Alaphilippe has set his sights on key objectives with his new team. He emphasized his desire to excel in the Classics and expressed a dream of returning to the Tour de France with Tudor Pro Cycling. “I want to play my role as a leader, to guide the youngsters, even though I’m not very old yet. I have a lot of experience and that can be important for them. It’s a great motivation to contribute what I know and my way of being on and off the bike. I’m very motivated to win races and develop at the highest level, both personally and with the team,” he remarked.
The cycling world will keenly observe how this partnership unfolds, anticipating that Alaphilippe’s experience and flair will significantly contribute to Tudor Pro Cycling’s ambitions on the global stage.
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