French Cycling Star Julian Alaphilippe Reportedly Set to Retire

Julian Alaphilippe, the celebrated French cyclist and two-time world champion, is reportedly set to end his professional career at the age of 34. According to French newspaper L'Equipe, the rider has decided to retire immediately, despite having a contract with the Swiss-based Tudor Pro Cycling team that extends through the 2027 season. If confirmed, Alaphilippe would not participate in any further races this year and would forgo the final year of his contract.

His final race would have been this year's Tour de France, which he completed in Paris at the end of July. Alaphilippe had previously hinted at the end of his illustrious career during the Tour, remarking after a demanding stage on Alpe d'Huez that it might have been his last participation in the iconic race. "I made the most of it, I gave my all, even without major success," he told reporters at the time.

Known for his aggressive and attacking style, Alaphilippe became a world champion in 2020 and 2021. He achieved six stage wins at the Tour de France and held the yellow jersey for 18 days. His palmarès also includes victories in prestigious one-day classics like the Milan-San Remo and Strade Bianche, as well as three wins at the La Flèche Wallonne. Throughout his professional career, he amassed 45 victories.

Alaphilippe came close to winning the Tour de France overall in 2019, but his challenge was ultimately derailed by weather-related route changes in a late mountain stage. After his most successful years with the Quick-Step team, his victories became less frequent in recent seasons. He moved to Tudor Pro Cycling for the 2025 season, hoping for a fresh start. His sole victory with the Swiss team came last year at the Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec, where he defeated Tadej Pogačar. This current season has been more challenging, with no podium finishes and several early race abandonments. Nevertheless, he persevered to finish the Tour de France in July, reaching Paris.

“

I made the most of it, I gave my all, even without major success.