The two-time world champion has decided to end his career despite his contract.

Julian Alaphilippe, twice world road race champion, has decided to end his professional cycling career despite having a contract with Tudor Pro Cycling through the end of 2027. The 34-year-old French rider, who won the UCI World Championships in 2020 and 2021, confirmed his decision after completing his final professional race. According to reports from L'Equipe, Alaphilippe’s last appearance was at the GP Gippingen, where he finished fifth. The announcement came following discussions with insiders at WielerFlits, a Dutch cycling media outlet, which initially shared the news. The information was later corroborated by sources within the largest French sports media platform, Profimedia. Although neither Alaphilippe nor his team have officially released a statement confirming the decision, the move appears to be finalized. His final season with Tudor Pro Cycling will conclude before the end of 2026. Alaphilippe, who turned pro in 2014, has accumulated 44 professional victories throughout his career. Of these, 43 were achieved while riding for Quick-Step, with just one win coming during his tenure with Tudor. He secured six stages at the Tour de France, three victories at the Flemish Classics, and triumphed at the Milan, San Remo classic. His two world titles, both in the road race category, were earned in Imola, Italy, in 2020, and in Flanders, Belgium, in 2021. In a conversation during this year's Tour de France, Alaphilippe expressed his thoughts on the future of his career. “In recent years, I’ve felt that my time is coming to an end,” he said. “I’m not getting younger in cycling, but at 34, I still feel young enough in life. There’s still a good year left in my contract, but after that, I want nothing more than a good life.” This sentiment reflects a shift from his earlier stance, where he had considered continuing until the end of 2027. His decision marks a significant moment in the careers of many cyclists, especially given his long-standing success and reputation as one of the sport’s top talents. While some fans and colleagues may be surprised by the timing, others see it as a logical step for someone of his age and experience. Alaphilippe’s departure from Tudor Pro Cycling leaves a void in the team’s roster, particularly in the men’s road race category. Looking ahead, Alaphilippe plans to focus on personal life and possibly pursue other interests outside of professional cycling. Though details remain sparse, his commitment to ending his career cleanly suggests a desire to exit on his terms rather than under pressure. As the cycling calendar moves forward, the absence of Alaphilippe will be felt, especially in major races where his presence once played a key role. His legacy, however, remains firmly rooted in the history books of the sport.