Fabian Lienhard on Tour Debut, Team Dynamics & Chasing the Swiss Jersey
Lille, France – November 13, 2025 – In a candid interview with radsport-news.com, Tudor Pro Cycling’s Fabian Lienhard has opened up about his breakthrough 2025 season, highlighted by his long-awaited Tour de France debut. The Swiss rider, ranked 66th in RSNplusRSN’s annual rankings, reflects on the strategic move to Tudor, the challenges and rewards of supporting his teammates, and his ambitions for the future. This is breaking news for cycling enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the life of a dedicated professional.
Fabian Lienhard demonstrates his resilience during Paris-Roubaix. (Photo: Cor Vos)
From Groupama-FDJ to Tudor: A Strategic Shift
After five years with Groupama-FDJ, Lienhard made a pivotal move to the Swiss-based Tudor team. This wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a calculated step towards realizing a long-held dream. “The Tour de France was almost impossible in a French team. When things get tough, the Frenchman will be preferred,” Lienhard explained. The transfer not only secured his place within a Swiss professional team but also opened the door to his first-ever participation in the world’s most prestigious cycling race. This highlights a growing trend in professional cycling: riders strategically choosing teams to maximize their opportunities.
A Tour Debut Focused on Teamwork
Lienhard’s Tour de France debut in July wasn’t about personal glory; it was about fulfilling a crucial support role. While he didn’t achieve any standout individual results, he diligently carried out his duties, completing the three weeks and reaching Paris. “My job was to get through the three weeks and carry out my helper duties – as I did throughout the entire season,” he stated. This exemplifies the often-unsung heroism of domestiques, the riders who sacrifice personal ambitions for the benefit of the team leader. Understanding the role of a domestique is key to appreciating the complexities of professional cycling team dynamics.
The Most Racing Days of Any Swiss Pro
Lienhard’s dedication to his craft is undeniable. In 2025, he completed an impressive 77 racing days – more than any other Swiss professional. His consistency, built on a foundation of rarely falling ill, allowed him to compete in nearly every race on the calendar. “I’m not super fast, but I’m relatively stable throughout the year,” he admitted, emphasizing his value as a reliable presence in the peloton. This level of endurance is a testament to his rigorous training and commitment.
Lienhard and his Tudor teammates celebrate a strong team performance. (Photo: Cor Vos)
Looking Ahead: New Challenges and Continued Ambition
While Lienhard enjoyed a “quite good” season overall, he’s already setting his sights on 2026. With Alberto Dainese’s departure to Soudal – Quick-Step, Lienhard is now seeking a new sprint captain. He’s already tested a promising partnership with Arvid De Kleijn, achieving success in the Tour de Langkawi. However, his personal ambitions extend beyond leadout duties. He’s determined to improve in the classics and, crucially, to finally capture the Swiss championship jersey. “If a flatter course comes along in the future, I’ll definitely have a chance,” he believes, confident in his sprinting ability within the Swiss cycling community.
Beyond immediate racing goals, Lienhard is also thinking long-term. He hopes to continue racing for another two to four years and remain involved in cycling after his competitive career ends, believing a Swiss team provides a better platform for both. This demonstrates a commitment not just to his sport, but to its future within his home country. The importance of national teams in fostering cycling talent is often underestimated.
Fabian Lienhard’s story is one of perseverance, strategic decision-making, and unwavering dedication. His 2025 season marked a significant milestone in his career, and his ambitions for the future promise even more exciting chapters. Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates on Fabian Lienhard and the world of professional cycling – your source for breaking sports news and in-depth analysis.
