It Hurts to See Him Leave”: Patrick Lefevere on Julian Alaphilippe’s Exit and the End of an Era for Soudal-QuickStep
Julian Alaphilippe’s departure from Soudal-QuickStep marks a poignant moment in the history of one of cycling’s most storied teams. For Patrick Lefevere, the team’s long-serving manager, Alaphilippe’s exit is not just the end of a chapter; it signifies the close of an era defined by the Frenchman’s charisma, talent, and unparalleled ability to animate races.
Julian Alaphilippe joined QuickStep in 2014, quickly making a name for himself as one of the most dynamic riders in the peloton. Known for his aggressive racing style and flair, Alaphilippe quickly became a fan favorite, earning victories in some of cycling’s most prestigious races. From winning the World Championships twice to securing multiple stage victories in the Tour de France, Alaphilippe was not just a rider for Soudal-QuickStep; he was an emblem of the team’s ethos of attacking racing and thrilling performances.
Lefevere, who has been at the helm of the Belgian team since its inception in 2003, has seen many riders come and go. Yet, Alaphilippe’s departure feels different. “It hurts to see him leave,” Lefevere admitted in a recent interview. “Julian is more than just a rider for us; he embodies what this team stands for – passion, aggression, and the spirit of racing. His departure marks the end of an era for Soudal-QuickStep.”
Alaphilippe’s journey with Soudal-QuickStep has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. He has given the team some of its most glorious moments, but there have also been periods of hardship, particularly in recent years. After a stellar 2019 and 2020, where he won the World Championships and several other significant races, Alaphilippe’s form has been inconsistent. A series of crashes, including a horrific fall in the 2022 Liège-Bastogne-Liège that left him with multiple fractures, disrupted his momentum.
Despite these setbacks, Alaphilippe remained a central figure in the team, not just because of his racing capabilities but also due to his role as a motivator and leader within the squad. His joyful nature, infectious smile, and willingness to give his all, even when not at his best, have made him a beloved figure among teammates and fans alike.
The decision for Alaphilippe to leave was not taken lightly. Both the rider and Lefevere have spoken about the emotional conversations that took place in the lead-up to the announcement. For Lefevere, it was a painful decision but one that had to be made. “We have to think about the future and what is best for both Julian and the team,” Lefevere said. “Sometimes, change is necessary, even if it is difficult.”
Financial considerations also played a role in Alaphilippe’s departure. The Frenchman was one of the highest-paid riders on the team, and with his recent struggles, there was a growing sense that his salary could be better utilized elsewhere. “Julian has a market value, and he deserved every euro he earned with us,” Lefevere stated. “But as a team, we have to make tough decisions to stay competitive. This is part of the sport.”
For many, Alaphilippe’s departure marks the end of an era at Soudal-QuickStep. He has been the face of the team for nearly a decade, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt. The team is undergoing a transformation, with an influx of young talent and a shift towards focusing more on stage races and Grand Tours, moving slightly away from their traditional strength in one-day classics.
Lefevere acknowledges this shift and the bittersweet nature of it. “Every team evolves,” he said. “We are entering a new phase, and while it is exciting, it also means saying goodbye to some of the riders who have been part of our journey. Julian is a big loss for us, not just for his results but for what he represents.”
As Soudal-QuickStep looks to the future, the departure of Alaphilippe leaves a significant void, but it also opens up new opportunities. The team has already begun investing in young talent, hoping to develop the next generation of stars. Riders like Remco Evenepoel, who has already shown his potential by winning the Vuelta a España and multiple one-day races, will be expected to step up and fill the leadership gap left by Alaphilippe.
For Lefevere, the focus is now on building a team that can continue to compete at the highest level. “We have a strong group of riders, and I believe in them,” he said. “Julian has set a high standard, and now it is up to the next generation to follow in his footsteps and create their own legacy.”
Julian Alaphilippe may no longer be wearing the Soudal-QuickStep jersey, but his legacy with the team is secure. He leaves behind a record of incredible achievements and a lasting impact on the culture and spirit of the squad. His attacking style and passion for the sport have left an indelible mark on the team and the fans.
As Alaphilippe embarks on a new chapter in his career, likely with another top team that can cater to his ambitions and talents, Lefevere and Soudal-QuickStep will move forward, adapting to the changes and embracing new challenges. But for Lefevere and those who have been part of the journey, there will always be a sense of nostalgia for the Alaphilippe years – a time when a flamboyant Frenchman brought excitement, drama, and glory to one of cycling’s most successful teams.
“It’s the end of an era,” Lefevere mused. “But every end is a new beginning. Julian will always be a part of our history, and we wish him nothing but success in his next adventure.”
