Flanders 2021 - Julian Alaphilippe: I sensed an opportunity and rode on instinct
Sep 27 2021 06:48 am CET
Photo of Julian Alaphilippe (c) Wout Beel
Julian Alaphilippe (France, Deceuninck-Quick-Step) has taken the title again of the World Championships after a strong race in the Flanders 2021 course.
The Frenchman was one of the most active riders during the 268.3-kilometre race, starting his attacks with 180 kilometres to go. A strong selection of riders took the lead of the race and at 17 kilometres from the finish line, he launched his decisive move, creating a gap that allowed him to cross the finish line more than 30 seconds ahead of his rivals, seizing like this the Rainbow Jersey for the second year in a row.
"I have no words, I am just so happy!" said Alaphilippe. "I worked hard for this and had good legs, but I didn't dare to dream about retaining my title. It's insane, that's all that I can say. An amazing victory which wouldn't have been possible without my incredible team, who protected me all day long and guided me excellently in the final part of the race.
"The plan was to counter in the final kilometres, but I sensed an opportunity and rode on instinct. As soon as a gap was there, I rode my heart out to remain at the front. The Belgian supporters told me to slow down, but that only motivated me to go harder. I left everything on the road, and while I was doing that, I kept thinking of my son, Nino. Winning the Worlds again is incredible."
Flanders 2021 - Julian Alaphilippe: I sensed an opportunity and rode on instinct https://t.co/GHsacKYwS4#Flanders2021
— CyclingPub (@CyclingPub) September 26, 2021
? @GettySportpic.twitter.com/QLVR3dTFlJ
SUBSCRIBE TO RSS FEEDS