Julian Alaphilippe ended his professional cycling career after the Tour de France following a 15-year career as his spark had faded during his time with the Swiss team.
Honored at the French Cycling Federation Gala
The French Cycling Federation hosted a cycling gala on Thursday evening where Julian Alaphilippe was presented with an award honoring his accomplishments in the sport. France paid tribute to the 34-year-old Alaphilippe once again on Thursday, despite his abrupt announcement of an immediate retirement from professional cycling near the end of 2026.
“I’m happy to be here with you all, and a little moved,” Alaphilippe told IDL Pro Cycling. “There are so many people I’m seeing again, and when I look at photos, I’m even happier with my decision. I always wanted to retire at the right time and not keep going for another year too long.”
Reflecting on a 15-Year Career
Alaphilippe enjoyed his heyday some years ago, winning two road World Championships in 2020 and 2021. Still, he tried to breathe new life into his career in more recent years.
Following a period when things did not pan out at Soudal Quick-Step, Alaphilippe competed for Tudor throughout 2025 and 2026. Yet, by the time that summer’s Tour de France rolled around, the athlete’s enthusiasm had diminished during his stint with the Swiss squad.
| Team | Active Years | Career Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Soudal Quick-Step | Pre-2025 | Two road World Championships (2020, 2021) |
| Tudor Pro Cycling | 2025–2026 | Final WorldTour campaign, Tour de France appearance |
“A lot has already been said about modern cycling, about its evolution, nutrition, and performance,” Alaphilippe told IDL Pro Cycling after calling it quits following the Tour de France.
“I was enjoying it less and less. I still felt useful to the team, but it was time for a new chapter. I’m happy with what I’ve achieved and feel privileged. I’m grateful and have been lucky to have had a 15-year career.”
Acknowledging the Roots of Success
During Thursday evening’s proceedings, Alaphilippe commanded the room while holding the microphone, yet the French rider unexpectedly shifted the focus toward a spectator in the crowd: Franck, who is his cousin and former coach.
“He was my coach from the very first moment I got on a bike,” Alaphilippe told IDL Pro Cycling. “He doesn’t like the spotlight, but it’s partly thanks to him that I’ve achieved all of this.”
“I send my regards to Franck,” Alaphilippe told IDL Pro Cycling. “He’s always been there for me, from the start of my career all the way to the Champs-Élysées in my last Tour. He saw me in the rainbow jersey, but also on my knees. He’s been important to my career, but also to my life.”
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