{"id":2105300,"date":"2026-08-21T02:36:40","date_gmt":"2026-08-20T23:36:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2105300"},"modified":"2026-08-21T02:36:40","modified_gmt":"2026-08-20T23:36:40","slug":"julian-alaphilippe-has-reportedly-called-an-early-end-to-his-professional-racing-career","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2105300","title":{"rendered":"Julian Alaphilippe has reportedly called an early end to his professional racing career"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-2000-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 1 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/oFHHPQJ4KKJ9XpSBHAhNHC-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/oFHHPQJ4KKJ9XpSBHAhNHC-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-4 h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">1<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Jonas Vingegaard out for rest of season with no return possible after crash\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 2 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">2<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Paul Seixas draws a line under intense transfer speculation with confirmation of team for 2027\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 3 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">3<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Bob Jungels calls time on 15-year professional cycling career to take on new business venture\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTeams &amp; Riders\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTudor Pro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nJulian Alaphilippe\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Julian Alaphilippe has reportedly called an early end to his professional racing career<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nSimone Giuliani <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-08-21T02:36:40Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n21 August 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">L&#8217;Equipe says that the French cyclist is set to retire immediately, forgoing the rest of this season and the final year of his contract with Tudor Pro Cycling<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">Crowds clamouring for Julian Alaphilippe in what may have been his last day of racing as a professional on stage 21 of the 2026 Tour de France<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">3<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-50da6bf4-9d02-11f1-9b1a-23dd23fbded0\">Julian Alaphilippe may have already pinned on a number for the very last time. The rider, who is signed at Tudor Pro Cycling through to the end of 2027, is not intending to compete in any further races this season and will also forgo the final year of his contract so he can retire immediately, according to French news outlet <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p><em>Wielerflits<\/em> had also earlier reported that the 34-year-old was on the verge of terminating his contract, with <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em> following on with the news that its sources had confirmed that Alaphilippe&#8217;s last race had indeed already been run.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-50da6bf4-9d02-11f1-9b1a-23dd23fbded0-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The French rider had certainly hinted at the Tour de France that retirement was on the cards, potentially sooner rather than later, despite the three-year contract he signed with Tudor running through to the end of next season.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After battling his way up Alpe d&#8217;Huez, to finish 26 minutes down from stage winner Richard Carapaz (EF Education-EasyPost) in 29th, Alaphilippe said, with <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> and a small huddle of French media gathered around him, that: \u201cIt\u2019s maybe my last one, so I made the most of it, I gave everything, not with a lot of success but I didn\u2019t leave anything out there.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><em>Cyclingnews<\/em> has contacted Tudor Pro Cycling for comment on the retirement reports and will provide updates when any official statement is made on Alaphilippe&#8217;s future.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">\u2018There\u2019s no enjoyment anymore\u2019 &#8211;  Julian Alaphilippe says this is his final Tour de France<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;It&#8217;s as if he only has one or two rounds left&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Tudor left without answers for Julian Alaphilippe&#8217;s Tour de France struggles<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Julian Alaphilippe to skip French Road Nationals to focus on preparation for Tour de France<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Through his career the two-time road world champion won fans over not just with his success, but also his racing panache which delivered excitement regardless of whether it ended with a win or loss. In much of the decade he spent in the WorldTour with Quickstep the wins were regular and prestigious. Through that time \u2013 as well as delivering two back-to-back years in the rainbow jersey \u2013 Alaphilippe clocked up six Tour de France stage victories, spent 18 days in the yellow jersey, won La Fl\u00e8che Wallonne three times plus added Milan-San Remo and Strade Bianche to his UCI win tally, which now sits at 45.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The run of top tier victories, however, slowed heading into Alaphilippe&#8217;s final years with Soudal-Quickstep and team manager Patrick Lefevere had become openly critical of the rider who had delivered so much success for the team over the years.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Still, at the time it was seen as somewhat of a coup for Tudor to land the giant of French cycling particularly as they were eyeing a wildcard entry for the Tour de France, which they secured in 2025. It was hoped the move to Tudor at the beginning of last season would mark a turning point for the team and also for Alaphilippe, who was looking to get &#8220;back on the winning path&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">However, while there were some close calls in 2025 \u2013 with podium results at the Tour de France, Tour of Britain and Tre Valli Varesine \u2013 it wasn&#8217;t until near the end of his first season with the squad that Alaphilippe scooped up his sole victory of the season, taken at the Grand Prix Cycliste de Qu\u00e9bec. This year, even podiums have proven elusive. There have also been a number of DNF&#8217;s for the 34-year-old, including one at La Fl\u00e8che Wallonne, a race where he had managed to climb on the podium in five of his eight starts.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In fact, four of his five races on the lead in to the Tour de France this year were cut short before the final finish line, though Alaphilippe did make it to the Paris finale at what now looks set to be his last Grand Tour and his very last race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>Road<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Simone Giuliani<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">Australia Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Simone is a degree-qualified journalist that has accumulated decades of wide-ranging experience while working across a variety of leading media organisations. She joined <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> as a Production Editor at the start of the 2021 season and has now moved into the role of Australia Editor. Previously she worked as a freelance writer, Australian Editor at <em>Ella CyclingTips<\/em> and as a correspondent for <em>Reuters<\/em> and <em>Bloomberg<\/em>. Cycling was initially purely a leisure pursuit for Simone, who started out as a business journalist, but in 2015 her career focus also shifted to the sport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">\u2018There\u2019s no enjoyment anymore\u2019 &#8211;  Julian Alaphilippe says this is his final Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s as if he only has one or two rounds left&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Tudor left without answers for Julian Alaphilippe&#8217;s Tour de France struggles<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Julian Alaphilippe to skip French Road Nationals to focus on preparation for Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Bob Jungels calls time on 15-year professional cycling career to take on new business venture<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome announces retirement from pro cycling<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Eventually you start becoming ready to stop&#8217; &#8211; Magnus Cort announces retirement at end of season following one last Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Teams &amp; Riders<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It only depends on my legs&#8217; \u2013 Jo\u00e3o Almeida eyes possible &#8216;Plan B&#8217; GC bid alongside teammate Tadej Poga\u010dar at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I haven&#8217;t even enjoyed any training this year, it&#8217;s been that bad&#8217; &#8211; Mikel Landa in survival mode at the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a.<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I need to race smart&#8217; &#8211; Tadej Poga\u010dar looking to complete the Grand Slam of Grand Tours in the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a, while still looking ahead<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Just putting my socks on these last three weeks was the hardest&#8217; &#8211; Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d reveals scale of post-crash injuries and challenge to reach Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a startline<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It could be an opportunity to be close in GC&#8217; &#8211; Opening time trial in Monaco enticing incentive for Wout van Aert&#8217;s return to Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Jonathan Milan ordered to pull over as race leader is lapped by peloton following huge crash at Renewi Tour<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Lotte Kopecky pulls out of Tour of Britain Women<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It only depends on my legs&#8217; \u2013 Jo\u00e3o Almeida eyes possible &#8216;Plan B&#8217; GC bid alongside teammate Tadej Poga\u010dar at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A huge step-up and a lot to learn&#8217; \u2013 Kate Courtney swiftly adapting to WorldTour racing with FDJ United-Suez at the Tour of Britain Women<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We can make quick decisions&#8217; &#8211; Megan Guarnier switches from driver&#8217;s seat to race bike to guide US women&#8217;s team at Philadelphia Cycling Classic<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I haven&#8217;t even enjoyed any training this year, it&#8217;s been that bad&#8217; &#8211; Mikel Landa in survival mode at the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a.<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Cars from the general public coming at me from all directions&#8217; \u2013 Maeve Plouffe narrowly avoids being hit by driver at Tour of Britain Women<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice\">\n<section class=\"popular-box\" data-component-name=\"Slice:PopularBox\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">\nLATEST ARTICLES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Lotte Kopecky pulls out of Tour of Britain Women<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;It only depends on my legs&#8217; \u2013 Jo\u00e3o Almeida eyes possible &#8216;Plan B&#8217; GC bid alongside teammate Tadej Poga\u010dar at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;I haven&#8217;t even enjoyed any training this year, it&#8217;s been that bad&#8217; &#8211; Mikel Landa in survival mode at the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Julian Alaphilippe has reportedly called an early end to his professional racing career<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;A huge step-up and a lot to learn&#8217; \u2013 Kate Courtney swiftly adapting to WorldTour racing with FDJ United-Suez at the Tour of Britain Women<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTeams &amp; Riders\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTudor Pro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nJulian Alaphilippe\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Julian Alaphilippe has reportedly called an early end to his professional racing career<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nSimone Giuliani <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-08-21T02:36:40Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n21 August 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">L&#8217;Equipe says that the French cyclist is set to retire immediately, forgoing the rest of this season and the final year of his contract with Tudor Pro Cycling<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">Crowds clamouring for Julian Alaphilippe in what may have been his last day of racing as a professional on stage 21 of the 2026 Tour de France<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">3<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-50da6bf4-9d02-11f1-9b1a-23dd23fbded0\">Julian Alaphilippe may have already pinned on a number for the very last time. The rider, who is signed at Tudor Pro Cycling through to the end of 2027, is not intending to compete in any further races this season and will also forgo the final year of his contract so he can retire immediately, according to French news outlet <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p><em>Wielerflits<\/em> had also earlier reported that the 34-year-old was on the verge of terminating his contract, with <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em> following on with the news that its sources had confirmed that Alaphilippe&#8217;s last race had indeed already been run.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-50da6bf4-9d02-11f1-9b1a-23dd23fbded0-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The French rider had certainly hinted at the Tour de France that retirement was on the cards, potentially sooner rather than later, despite the three-year contract he signed with Tudor running through to the end of next season.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After battling his way up Alpe d&#8217;Huez, to finish 26 minutes down from stage winner Richard Carapaz (EF Education-EasyPost) in 29th, Alaphilippe said, with <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> and a small huddle of French media gathered around him, that: \u201cIt\u2019s maybe my last one, so I made the most of it, I gave everything, not with a lot of success but I didn\u2019t leave anything out there.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><em>Cyclingnews<\/em> has contacted Tudor Pro Cycling for comment on the retirement reports and will provide updates when any official statement is made on Alaphilippe&#8217;s future.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">\u2018There\u2019s no enjoyment anymore\u2019 &#8211;  Julian Alaphilippe says this is his final Tour de France<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;It&#8217;s as if he only has one or two rounds left&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Tudor left without answers for Julian Alaphilippe&#8217;s Tour de France struggles<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Julian Alaphilippe to skip French Road Nationals to focus on preparation for Tour de France<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Through his career the two-time road world champion won fans over not just with his success, but also his racing panache which delivered excitement regardless of whether it ended with a win or loss. In much of the decade he spent in the WorldTour with Quickstep the wins were regular and prestigious. Through that time \u2013 as well as delivering two back-to-back years in the rainbow jersey \u2013 Alaphilippe clocked up six Tour de France stage victories, spent 18 days in the yellow jersey, won La Fl\u00e8che Wallonne three times plus added Milan-San Remo and Strade Bianche to his UCI win tally, which now sits at 45.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The run of top tier victories, however, slowed heading into Alaphilippe&#8217;s final years with Soudal-Quickstep and team manager Patrick Lefevere had become openly critical of the rider who had delivered so much success for the team over the years.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Still, at the time it was seen as somewhat of a coup for Tudor to land the giant of French cycling particularly as they were eyeing a wildcard entry for the Tour de France, which they secured in 2025. It was hoped the move to Tudor at the beginning of last season would mark a turning point for the team and also for Alaphilippe, who was looking to get &#8220;back on the winning path&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">However, while there were some close calls in 2025 \u2013 with podium results at the Tour de France, Tour of Britain and Tre Valli Varesine \u2013 it wasn&#8217;t until near the end of his first season with the squad that Alaphilippe scooped up his sole victory of the season, taken at the Grand Prix Cycliste de Qu\u00e9bec. This year, even podiums have proven elusive. There have also been a number of DNF&#8217;s for the 34-year-old, including one at La Fl\u00e8che Wallonne, a race where he had managed to climb on the podium in five of his eight starts.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In fact, four of his five races on the lead in to the Tour de France this year were cut short before the final finish line, though Alaphilippe did make it to the Paris finale at what now looks set to be his last Grand Tour and his very last race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>Road<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RUKCQmBBgAFRGkijgpLyah.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Simone Giuliani<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">Australia Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Simone is a degree-qualified journalist that has accumulated decades of wide-ranging experience while working across a variety of leading media organisations. She joined <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> as a Production Editor at the start of the 2021 season and has now moved into the role of Australia Editor. Previously she worked as a freelance writer, Australian Editor at <em>Ella CyclingTips<\/em> and as a correspondent for <em>Reuters<\/em> and <em>Bloomberg<\/em>. Cycling was initially purely a leisure pursuit for Simone, who started out as a business journalist, but in 2015 her career focus also shifted to the sport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">\u2018There\u2019s no enjoyment anymore\u2019 &#8211;  Julian Alaphilippe says this is his final Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s as if he only has one or two rounds left&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Tudor left without answers for Julian Alaphilippe&#8217;s Tour de France struggles<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Julian Alaphilippe to skip French Road Nationals to focus on preparation for Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HghRJP9JjYvNXgXBVhkq6h-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Bob Jungels calls time on 15-year professional cycling career to take on new business venture<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bZWAncvpLsdhmW3LWV4FTJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome announces retirement from pro cycling<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ekredhmroG6FhUvekxpvvN-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Eventually you start becoming ready to stop&#8217; &#8211; Magnus Cort announces retirement at end of season following one last Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Teams &amp; Riders<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It only depends on my legs&#8217; \u2013 Jo\u00e3o Almeida eyes possible &#8216;Plan B&#8217; GC bid alongside teammate Tadej Poga\u010dar at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I haven&#8217;t even enjoyed any training this year, it&#8217;s been that bad&#8217; &#8211; Mikel Landa in survival mode at the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a.<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r4EDHRKrKu3tRtpXMKgLsP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I need to race smart&#8217; &#8211; Tadej Poga\u010dar looking to complete the Grand Slam of Grand Tours in the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a, while still looking ahead<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YvLurAtwGrsupwv3CVbzQM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Just putting my socks on these last three weeks was the hardest&#8217; &#8211; Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d reveals scale of post-crash injuries and challenge to reach Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a startline<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tfLM6usLQ7FSegycrtArMn-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It could be an opportunity to be close in GC&#8217; &#8211; Opening time trial in Monaco enticing incentive for Wout van Aert&#8217;s return to Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nTZNZUUHHn5swtJ88RvBgD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Jonathan Milan ordered to pull over as race leader is lapped by peloton following huge crash at Renewi Tour<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Lotte Kopecky pulls out of Tour of Britain Women<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/m3Jt9LNmhTEMRgsrgWE9vG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It only depends on my legs&#8217; \u2013 Jo\u00e3o Almeida eyes possible &#8216;Plan B&#8217; GC bid alongside teammate Tadej Poga\u010dar at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zVJvoGMBete8FgwMHc7JTE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A huge step-up and a lot to learn&#8217; \u2013 Kate Courtney swiftly adapting to WorldTour racing with FDJ United-Suez at the Tour of Britain Women<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GM85ok5puyZs3Dy2CBdPdT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We can make quick decisions&#8217; &#8211; Megan Guarnier switches from driver&#8217;s seat to race bike to guide US women&#8217;s team at Philadelphia Cycling Classic<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qrT26Xteho8U5gshkKC8f9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I haven&#8217;t even enjoyed any training this year, it&#8217;s been that bad&#8217; &#8211; Mikel Landa in survival mode at the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a.<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pUQ2PnASq6czdvMoqTQbcQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Cars from the general public coming at me from all directions&#8217; \u2013 Maeve Plouffe narrowly avoids being hit by driver at Tour of Britain Women<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice\">\n<section class=\"popular-box\" data-component-name=\"Slice:PopularBox\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">\nLATEST ARTICLES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/onxjykbjbXTp2YUWDDjnF3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Lotte Kopecky pulls out of Tour of Britain Women<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;It only depends on my legs&#8217; \u2013 Jo\u00e3o Almeida eyes possible &#8216;Plan B&#8217; GC bid alongside teammate Tadej Poga\u010dar at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;I haven&#8217;t even enjoyed any training this year, it&#8217;s been that bad&#8217; &#8211; Mikel Landa in survival mode at the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Julian Alaphilippe has reportedly called an early end to his professional racing career<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;A huge step-up and a lot to learn&#8217; \u2013 Kate Courtney swiftly adapting to WorldTour racing with FDJ United-Suez at the Tour of Britain Women<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTeams &amp; Riders\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTudor Pro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nJulian Alaphilippe\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Julian Alaphilippe has reportedly called an early end to his professional racing career<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nSimone Giuliani <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-08-21T02:36:40Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n21 August 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">L&#8217;Equipe says that the French cyclist is set to retire immediately, forgoing the rest of this season and the final year of his contract with Tudor Pro Cycling<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">3<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-50da6bf4-9d02-11f1-9b1a-23dd23fbded0\">Julian Alaphilippe may have already pinned on a number for the very last time. The rider, who is signed at Tudor Pro Cycling through to the end of 2027, is not intending to compete in any further races this season and will also forgo the final year of his contract so he can retire immediately, according to French news outlet <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p><em>Wielerflits<\/em> had also earlier reported that the 34-year-old was on the verge of terminating his contract, with <em>L&#8217;Equipe<\/em> following on with the news that its sources had confirmed that Alaphilippe&#8217;s last race had indeed already been run.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-50da6bf4-9d02-11f1-9b1a-23dd23fbded0-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The French rider had certainly hinted at the Tour de France that retirement was on the cards, potentially sooner rather than later, despite the three-year contract he signed with Tudor running through to the end of next season.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After battling his way up Alpe d&#8217;Huez, to finish 26 minutes down from stage winner Richard Carapaz (EF Education-EasyPost) in 29th, Alaphilippe said, with <em>Cyclingnews<\/em> and a small huddle of French media gathered around him, that: \u201cIt\u2019s maybe my last one, so I made the most of it, I gave everything, not with a lot of success but I didn\u2019t leave anything out there.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><em>Cyclingnews<\/em> has contacted Tudor Pro Cycling for comment on the retirement reports and will provide updates when any official statement is made on Alaphilippe&#8217;s future.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2kg2xC9diwF9XNFXFsPXp7-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">\u2018There\u2019s no enjoyment anymore\u2019 &#8211;  Julian Alaphilippe says this is his final Tour de France<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DkoaGgKDwYT5hKHZR63vsC-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;It&#8217;s as if he only has one or two rounds left&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Tudor left without answers for Julian Alaphilippe&#8217;s Tour de France struggles<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CKJstRFpntixtHJ7QmqzpV-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Julian Alaphilippe to skip French Road Nationals to focus on preparation for Tour de France<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Through his career the two-time road world champion won fans over not just with his success, but also his racing panache which delivered excitement regardless of whether it ended with a win or loss. In much of the decade he spent in the WorldTour with Quickstep the wins were regular and prestigious. Through that time \u2013 as well as delivering two back-to-back years in the rainbow jersey \u2013 Alaphilippe clocked up six Tour de France stage victories, spent 18 days in the yellow jersey, won La Fl\u00e8che Wallonne three times plus added Milan-San Remo and Strade Bianche to his UCI win tally, which now sits at 45.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The run of top tier victories, however, slowed heading into Alaphilippe&#8217;s final years with Soudal-Quickstep and team manager Patrick Lefevere had become openly critical of the rider who had delivered so much success for the team over the years.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-gNAMTLH2mcvPsoUVfg62QG slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Still, at the time it was seen as somewhat of a coup for Tudor to land the giant of French cycling particularly as they were eyeing a wildcard entry for the Tour de France, which they secured in 2025. It was hoped the move to Tudor at the beginning of last season would mark a turning point for the team and also for Alaphilippe, who was looking to get &#8220;back on the winning path&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">However, while there were some close calls in 2025 \u2013 with podium results at the Tour de France, Tour of Britain and Tre Valli Varesine \u2013 it wasn&#8217;t until near the end of his first season with the squad that Alaphilippe scooped up his sole victory of the season, taken at the Grand Prix Cycliste de Qu\u00e9bec. This year, even podiums have proven elusive. There have also been a number of DNF&#8217;s for the 34-year-old, including one at La Fl\u00e8che Wallonne, a race where he had managed to climb on the podium in five of his eight starts.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In fact, four of his five races on the lead in to the Tour de France this year were cut short before the final finish line, though Alaphilippe did make it to the Paris finale at what now looks set to be his last Grand Tour and his very last race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/julian-alaphilippe-has-reportedly-called-an-early-end-to-his-professional-racing-career\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/preyXU8URFip5kJRmtcp5W-2000-80.jpg&#8221;] 1 Jonas Vingegaard out for rest of season with no return possible after crash 2 Paul Seixas draws a line under intense transfer speculation with confirmation of team for 2027 3 Bob Jungels calls time on 15-year professional cycling career to take on new business venture Pro Cycling Teams &amp; Riders Tudor [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-2105300","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2105300","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2105300"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2105300\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2105300"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2105300"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2105300"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}