"It is the biggest change since the start of my career. It is the first time I will be riding in another team, and I think it's good to have a change of scenery after so many years. The team makes me want to be part of it. I want to play my part as a leader, to guide the youngsters, even though I'm not very old yet (laughs)," continues Alaphillipe, who has had a rocky time at
Soudal - Quick-Step over recent seasons. "But I've got a lot of experience and that can be important for the young people in the team. It's a great motivation to bring what I know and my way of being on and off the bike. It really motivates me to win races and develop at the highest level, both personally and with the team.”
“We are super happy to have Julian joining the Team. He is a great rider who perfectly embodies our #BornToDare attitude. He still has the fire needed to perform at the highest level and he will bring stability and experience to the team. He is a smart rider but also a good guy, with a good sense of humour, professionalism and a daring attitude," adds team boss Cancellara. “Having Julian and Marc Hirschi as two leaders is an opportunity. They will take pressure off of each other but also make each other stronger. Julian brings panache, Marc brings coolness. Both can win at the highest level and will embody our racing spirit, which will have us taking on responsibility in some of the biggest races.”
“I want to perform at the highest level and see the group develop. I dream of returning to the roads of the Tour de France with the team one day, but important races like the Classics come first," Alaphilippe concludes. "It's a big change but getting back on the winning path with the team will be a great satisfaction and I hope it is the beginning of great things.”