Sports · Other Sports · 2 hrs ago
Julian Alaphilippe says he retired because it was time to move on
French cyclist Julian Alaphilippe retired in August, a year before his contract was due to end.
The 34-year-old said he had wanted to stop at the right time rather than race for one more year.
He was enjoying modern cycling less, though he still felt useful to his Tudor team.
Alaphilippe won the world road race title in 2020 and 2021, and became a major presence at the Tour de France in 2018 and 2019.
His results were quieter in recent years, apart from winning the 2025 Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec.
He says he is happy with his decision and grateful for the roughly 15 years he spent racing.
He has not revealed what he plans to do next and says he wants time away from the spotlight.
Julian Alaphilippe says he retired because he felt it was time to move on from professional cycling.
The French double world champion announced his retirement in August, a year before his contract was due to end.
He said he was enjoying modern cycling less and wanted to stop at the right time.
Alaphilippe said he was happy with what he had achieved over about 15 years in the sport.
He made the comments at a French Cycling Federation event where about 300 guests paid tribute to him.
- Who
- Julian Alaphilippe, the French double world champion.
- What
- He explained that he retired because he felt it was time to move on from cycling.
- When
- He announced his retirement in August. He spoke about the decision at a French Cycling Federation event.
- Where
- Not stated.
- Why
- He said he was enjoying modern cycling less and did not want to continue for one year too many.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Alaphilippe announced his retirement, one year earlier than expected.
Alaphilippe won the Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec.
Velo published his comments explaining his decision.
- World titles
- Two
- Retirement announcement
- August
- Contract
- Had one year remaining when he retired
- Career length
- About 15 years
- Tribute attendance
- Approximately 300 guests
What people are saying
I was enjoying modern cycling less and less. I still felt useful to my team, but I felt it was time to turn the page.
I’ve always wanted to stop at the right time, not to do one year too many.
I’ve had enough spotlight in my career and I need a bit of shade now.
Cycling was my escape but I’m happy to have stopped.