Magnus Sheffield gives insight on how USA sees cycling differently than in Europe: "They think the Tour de France is like a criterium in Paris and it's a one day race"

Magnus Sheffield has garnered much admiration for his skills, and he shared his experience of moving from America to Europe for cycling.

“There's no easy transition,” Sheffield told Rouleur. He continues, “As a junior, I raced in Europe. I really only just started getting into the world of cycling and understanding what the racing was all about and what the lifestyle was, but I hadn't actually lived full time here.”

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“As an American, it is challenging because I think my perspective on cycling is quite different from people from Western Europe. After the race, I go immediately to the airport and then to wherever I'm based. Whereas someone that grew up in Belgium or France, their family likely is there or their friends and they could take the train or bus back to their village.”

Unlike Europe, cycling doesn't enjoy as much enthusiasm in America, which results in a lack of familiarity with the sport. “I have the cycling aspect and then my personal life and there's quite a big gap between them. When I go back to the US, it just feels a bit funny when I talk to my friends because they have such a lack of understanding. No matter how much I try to explain how it all works, they think the Tour de France is like a criterium in Paris and it's a one day race.”

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From a young age, Sheffield had a fondness for Alpine skiing, which he pursued earnestly until he turned 16. “I've skied since I could walk and it's a big passion of mine. Whether it's competitively or leisurely, I definitely will pick up the skis again once I hang up the bike. I think it’s important to have something to look forward to after my career,” concluded Sheffield.

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