Julian Alaphilippe: "I am certainly looking forward to a comeback in Flanders"

Julian Alaphillipe revealed his main spring calendar today at the Soudal - Quick-Step presentation, as he eyes a run-up to Milano-Sanremo and Tour des Flandres where he will seek a big win in 2023.

“I am looking forward to the new season and am extremely motivated. I want to start strong right away," Alaphilippe told Het Nieuwsblad this afternoon. “2022 was a very difficult season. I took time to recover physically and mentally and worked hard this winter to get back to my top level.”

After a year filled with complications, the Frenchman will start his season at the Mallorca classics. Strade Bianche, Tirreno-Adriatico and Milano-Sanremo will build a crucial block in March where a big win could emerge and bring him his confidence back, however it is the Tour des Flandres where the former World Champion looks to succeed.

“My first big goal will be the Tour of Flanders. It's a race I love and I hope to do well there," he admits, before explaining why Liège-Bastogne-Liège was not mentioned in his schedule. "We will then see what is still in the tank for the Ardennes classics, but I am certainly looking forward to a comeback in Flanders."