‘It hurts to see him leave’ – Patrick Lefevere sees Julian Alaphilippe’s exit as end of an era for Soudal-QuickStep

Patrick Lefevere has described Julian Alaphilippe’s departure from Soudal-QuickStep as “the end of an era” both for the team and the rider. It was confirmed on Monday that Alaphilippe will ride for Tudor Pro Cycling next season after signing a three-year contract with the Swiss squad.

Alaphilippe has spent the entirety of his professional career to date with QuickStep, having previously raced for their feeder team, but his exit from the team seemed likely this summer after he had borne the brunt of some bracing and very public criticism from Lefevere in recent seasons.