Can Julian Alaphilippe light up Tour Down Under with Willunga Hill fireworks?

French rider leads Soudal Quick-Step into a race where he made his debut back in 2014

10:30, Saturday 6th January 2024

Daniel Benson

Editor in Chief

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Julian Alaphilippe last rode the Tour Down Under a decade ago, when the team were known as Omega Pharma-Quick-Step

It’s been a decade since former two-time world champion Julian Alaphilippe (Soudal Quick-Step) graced the Tour Down Under with his presence but the Frenchman heads to the race this year with a strong-looking support crew and hopes of putting on a show for the home crowds.

Back in 2014, when Alaphilippe last rode the Australian WorldTour race, he was a fresh-faced 21-year-old making his Quick-Step debut, and he made little impression on the key stage to Willunga Hill. But with his powerful kick on short climbs, and his ability to compete for the all-important bonus seconds, he heads to the six-stage race as a genuine contender.

Much will depend on his motivation, and his early season form after a difficult 2023 campaign, but the 31-year-old won't be underestimated by the likes of Simon Yates (Jayco AlUla) and Jack Haig (Bahrain Victorious).

“I’m happy to be returning to Down Under after a decade,” the Frenchman said before travelling to the race.

"Australia is a great country, with fans that love the sport and show you their support every time. I still remember the emotion and joy I felt upon pinning on a number for my first race with the team there in 2014. I’m excited to go back where it all began and I hope for a good start to the season,” he added.

Josef Černý, James Knox, Casper Pedersen and Pieter Serry make up the bulk of the Soudal-QuickStep team for the race that runs from January 16 to 21 but there are also debuts for Gil Gelders and Antoine Huby.

Sports director Geert Van Bondt believes that he’s taking a competitive team to Australia and that Alaphilippe can have his chance to shine, whether that’s on Willunga Hill or Mount Lofty, the other key battleground for the GC riders and climbers.

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Casper Pedersen, who is also making his debut in the race, is another all-rounder who could leave his mark on the race according to the Belgian DS.

“We come with a strong squad and we’re looking forward to the race. Julian can get some opportunities with the support of the experienced guys on the squad, while Casper can get involved in the fight for a good result on the flat stages. For Gil and Antoine, this will be a nice way to start with Soudal Quick-Step and we can’t wait to see them in action,” Van Bondt said.

GCN will have full race reports, news, interviews and tech coverage from both the men’s and women’s races at the 2024 Tour Down Under.