Six months. Six months will have passed between Julian Alaphilippe’s last two victories on the professional circuit. On September 26, 2021, the Berrichon cyclist won a second world champion title. Until April 5, 2022, the rainbow jersey no longer wins any race. Meanwhile, there is a spectacular fall on the Tour of Flanders and bronchitis which weakens him and even deprives him of Milan – San Remo.
Deliverance finally arrived during the second stage of the Tour of the Basque Country: 207 kilometers between Leitza and Vianna. In the sprint, perfectly led by his teammate Remco Evenpoel, Alaphilippe won well ahead of everyone. Arms raised, fist furious, a big smile on his face: when crossing the finish line, we perceive the relief of Saint-Amandois. “What a pleasure to find the way to victory after a few rocky weeks. But hard work always pays off”reacts Alaphilippe on his social networks.