During the recent Paris-Nice cycling race, Julian Alaphilippe made a significant impact within his Tudor Cycling team, establishing himself as a leader by prioritizing his teammates' success over his own aspirations. Despite not securing a stage victory during the race, which took place from March 11 to March 17, 2025, Alaphilippe's contributions did not go unnoticed.
On the sixth stage, held on March 15, Alaphilippe showcased his deep sense of teamwork by sacrificing his chances for victory to support his teammate Michael Storer, who ultimately claimed triumph at the Auron stage. This selfless act exemplified Alaphilippe's commitment to his team and mirrored similar instances from his previous stint with the Quick-Step team.
Morgan Lamoisson, one of the directors of Tudor Cycling, expressed his satisfaction with Alaphilippe’s overall performance. "Sincerely, we are very satisfied with his week at Paris-Nice, both on the bike and off it. He brings a lot to the group. He had a full week; he was important in the group dynamic," he commented in an interview.
While Alaphilippe aimed for a stage victory, he recognized the value of collective performance. Reflecting on his time at the race, he said, "It was a difficult but beautiful week. I enjoyed every moment of the race. It was an opportunity to take stock. I feel good physically and I am in good timing; I think that is a good sign for what is to come."
The mutual respect and teamwork cultivated during the race are likely to benefit the team going forward. Lamoisson noted that when a leader like Alaphilippe offers such support and dedication, it motivates the entire team. “It should mean something to have a double World Champion riding for you,” he emphasized.
In regard to how he approaches team dynamics, Alaphilippe stated, "It's important to give the maximum for my teammates; I’ve always done that. I know when I need them, they will also be there for me." This kind of mentality boosts morale, creating an environment where each cyclist is eager to support one another.
Now, with valuable experiences from Paris-Nice, Alaphilippe looks forward to the upcoming Milan-San Remo race on Saturday, March 22, 2025. This specific race marks the beginning of a new chapter in the classics campaign, which includes significant events like the GP E3, the Tour des Flandres, and the Ardennes races. His leadership and team spirit could prove crucial as the season progresses.
As he prepares for Milan-San Remo, Alaphilippe’s performance at Paris-Nice holds key implications for team strategy and dynamics. If his selflessness and commitment continue to inspire his teammates, it could lead to significant victories in the races ahead. The importance of fostering such a collective spirit cannot be understated for any cycling team vying for success.
