For Julian Alaphilippe, the year 2024 could represent a new boost for his career. The Frenchman from Soudal Quick-Step, currently 31 years old, has accumulated many achievements, but his recent performances have fallen short of what his fans are used to. Even so, sporting director Geert Van Bondt maintains confidence in the two-time world champion.
Impressive honors
With two world titles, victories in the Strade Bianche, Milan-San Remo, three victories in the Flèche Wallonne, the Clásica San Sebastián and six stages in the Tour de France, Julian Alaphilippe boasts an impressive CV. However, in recent years, despite his exploits, the great French public idol has taken a backseat when compared to the two rising stars of the Classics, Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert.
Soudal QuickStep sporting director reveals program change
Geert Van Bondt, former cyclist and current sporting director at Soudal Quick-Step, shared his observations about Julian Alaphilippe.
“When Julian boarded the plane this Tuesday morning (23.01), he expressed how much he enjoyed being here and how he left with a very positive feeling”, reported the director in a conversation with the Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad.
“He was very pleased to be taking part in the Tour Down Under, rather than following the training routine in and around Calpe as he has done for the last ten years.”
Happy Alaphilippe was the goal
“A happy Alaphilippe, despite not having won: that’s what we had in mind. We want him to participate in the finals again, instead of throwing himself into hopeless escapes. May he learn to compete for victory again.”
“The fewer results, the lower the confidence. The Tour Down Under was a very good test. I know from experience that when you start well, the rest becomes easier. The doubts disappeared.”
But will this also result in a victory in, for example, Milan-San Remo or the Tour of Flanders?
“I am convinced that a good Alaphilippe will compete again with Mathieu Van der Poel and Wout Van Aert in the classics”, believes Van Bondt.
