Philipsen’s Pivotal Shift: How Alpecin-Deceuninck is Rewriting the Rules of Cycling Specialization
The line between sprinter and Classics contender is blurring, and Jasper Philipsen is at the forefront. While traditionally cyclists specialize rigidly, Alpecin-Deceuninck is betting big on a more versatile approach, actively encouraging their star rider to prioritize the grueling one-day races – a move that could redefine success in professional cycling. This isn’t just about Philipsen; it’s a potential blueprint for a future where riders need to be all-rounders to truly dominate.
The Rise of the Versatile Rider
For years, Jasper Philipsen has been a force in sprint finishes, culminating in the 2023 Tour de France green jersey. However, his talent isn’t limited to flat stages. He’s already proven himself a contender in the Classics, with a Milano-Sanremo victory and multiple podium finishes at Paris-Roubaix. This existing capability is what makes Alpecin-Deceuninck’s strategic shift so compelling. The team recognizes a potential for greater impact by focusing on races that demand both power and endurance, rather than solely relying on pure speed.
Why the Change? Beyond Just Wins
Philipsen himself acknowledges the team’s direction. “The team is trying to push me more towards the Classics, especially at the start of the season,” he stated to tuttobiciweb. But this isn’t simply about chasing more victories. 2025 was a comparatively quieter year for Philipsen in terms of total wins (seven UCI victories), impacted by crashes, including a broken collarbone at the Tour de France. However, Philipsen emphasizes that the quality of successes matters more. Wearing both the yellow and red jerseys in 2023, despite a lower overall win count, demonstrates a new metric for success – achieving peak performance at the most prestigious events.
The Training Evolution: From Sprint Power to Enduring Strength
This strategic shift necessitates a significant overhaul in training. Philipsen will need to build a “strong engine and a very solid base level” to remain competitive throughout the three-week Grand Tours, even after the demands of the Classics season. This means prioritizing endurance work and tactical training alongside traditional sprint drills. It’s a move away from the hyper-specialization that has characterized cycling for decades, and towards a more holistic approach to rider development. This echoes a broader trend in endurance sports, where athletes are increasingly focusing on functional strength and cross-training to enhance overall performance. TrainingPeaks offers detailed insights into the evolving methodologies of professional cycling training.
The Impact on Grand Tour Ambitions
While the Classics are taking center stage, the Tour de France remains a key objective. Philipsen’s ten stage wins demonstrate his ability to perform in the three-week race. The challenge will be to peak twice – once for the spring Classics and again for the summer Grand Tours. This requires meticulous periodization and a deep understanding of the physiological demands of each type of racing. The team’s strategy suggests a belief that a stronger, more versatile Philipsen will be a more consistent threat throughout the entire season.
The Giro d’Italia Question: A Future Goal?
Looking further ahead, Philipsen has expressed a desire to ride the Giro d’Italia. However, its placement on the calendar presents a logistical challenge, falling between the Classics and the Tour de France. This highlights a broader issue within professional cycling: the increasingly congested race calendar and the difficulty of balancing competing priorities. Successfully integrating the Giro into Philipsen’s schedule will require careful planning and potentially a re-evaluation of team strategies in future seasons.
A Glimpse into Cycling’s Future
Alpecin-Deceuninck’s decision to prioritize the Classics for Jasper Philipsen isn’t an isolated incident. It’s a sign of a potential shift in cycling strategy, driven by the need for riders who can excel in multiple disciplines. The days of hyper-specialization may be numbered, replaced by a demand for all-rounders who can adapt to the ever-changing demands of the sport. This approach could not only unlock Philipsen’s full potential but also inspire a new generation of cyclists to embrace versatility and challenge the traditional boundaries of specialization. What impact will this have on other teams and riders? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
