Following the confirmation of Julian Alaphilippe’s departure from Soudal-Quickstep, attention has switched to his next team for 2025 where Tudor Pro Cycling is believed to be his destination.
During the Giro d’Italia La Gazzetta dello Sport first reported interest from the Swiss team, backed by Rolex group watch brand Tudor, in signing the French former World Champion, and in recent days numerous sources have confirmed that a deal is imminent.
RMC has reported that while the deal has not been signed, Alaphilippe has said a decision has been made. "I can't say more but I know a little more,” Alaphilippe said to the French sports channel ahead of San Sebastian where he finished second. “My decision is made and I will communicate soon on it. Nothing is signed but, in my mind, it's done"
Alaphilippe would be by far the team’s most eminent signing, with Matteo Trentin currently being the team’s top-ranked rider by UCI points.
Tensions had risen between Alaphilippe and Soudal-QuickStep’s manager Patrick Lefevere following a series of public statements that critiqued the rider’s performance and even took aim at Alaphilipp's wife Marion Rousse as a bad influence.
Nevertheless, Lefevere has been keen to keep Alaphilippe in the squad in 2025. However, Tudor Pro Cycling was one of several teams known to be making substantial bids for the rider, with TotalEnergies also trying to sign the Frenchman.
Alongside Alaphilippe, Marc Hirshi (UAE Team Emirates) was believed to be a prime target for Tudor Pro Cycling, with the two finishing 1-2 at Donostia San Sebastián Klasikoa on Saturday. The two riders could form a very strong Classics duo Tudor if they both join the team for 2025.
Alaphilippe’s transfer is one of the most high-profile of the cycling transfers for the 2025 season, alongside possible moves from João Almeida and Remco Evenepoel.
