Julian Alaphilippe, one of cycling’s brightest stars, recently opened up about a powerful moment that helped him overcome a near defeat in a race. The French professional cyclist shared an emotional story about a time when he was on the brink of giving up during a race, but the sight of his father, Jo Alaphilippe, cheering him on from his wheelchair gave him the strength to push through and keep going.
Jo Alaphilippe, a former musician, had been battling a long illness, and his physical condition had deteriorated by the time the 2019 Tour de France came around. Despite his own health challenges, Jo traveled to the race to support his son. Watching his father, confined to a wheelchair yet still full of encouragement, was a pivotal moment for Julian. It was a reminder of the immense personal sacrifices his father had made for his career and how much his support meant to him, even in the most trying of times.
Julian, who had been struggling with exhaustion and frustration during the race, explained that he had almost given up when he saw his father from his position in the peloton. “In that moment, when I saw my father cheering me, I knew I couldn’t stop. He was there, in his wheelchair, smiling and giving me all the strength I needed. It was a turning point,” Julian said.
His father’s unwavering support, despite his own battle with illness, fueled Julian’s determination to push past his limits. Julian’s emotional recount of this moment highlighted the profound bond between them. It wasn’t just about the race anymore; it was about honoring his father’s spirit and resilience.
Sadly, Jo Alaphilippe passed away in June 2020 after a prolonged illness. His death was a heavy loss for Julian, both personally and professionally. Despite his grief, Julian continued to honor his father’s memory in his performances, channeling his love and support into his riding. The bond between father and son was one that transcended the sport, and even in his final years, Jo played an integral role in Julian’s success.
The story of that pivotal moment in the 2019 Tour de France is a testament to the power of family and the strength that can be drawn from loved ones in the most difficult of times. For Julian, his father’s presence, even in the face of his own personal struggles, provided a source of inspiration that kept him going when all seemed lost. It was a gesture that would forever resonate with him, reminding him that no matter the obstacles, family support is often the driving force behind success.
