Julian Alaphilippe became Elite Road Cycling World Champion in Imola (Italy) on Sunday, September 27, 2020, winning solo ahead of Wout van Aert and Marc Hirshi. On a course perfectly suited to him, the French team leader did not falter, launching a decisive attack in the final hectometers of the last climb, about fifteen kilometers from the finish. A look back in photos at the final moments of this magical afternoon for French sport.
Throughout the race, Julian Alaphilippe benefited from the work of his French team teammates. @Eloise Mavian / Tornanti.ccAt the decisive moment, the Frenchman countered Michal Kwiatowski by attacking on the large chainring. Wout van Aert couldn’t follow. @UCIUntil the very end, the Frenchman looked back to ensure his lead. @cyclingimagesHe can finally let loose as he approaches the finish line. @Francesco Rachello / Tornanti.ccA curious atmosphere on the Imola circuit, without spectators. @Eloise Mavian / Tornanti.ccUntil the end, the Frenchman looked back to ensure his lead. @CyclingimagesJulian Alaphilippe finally realizes his dream. @Francesco Rachello / Tornanti.ccFor the world title race, the regular Deceuninck Quick Step rider rode with Roval CLX 50 tubular wheels. @Eloise Mavian / Tornanti.ccVery few direct witnesses to the Frenchman’s feat on the Imola circuit, but record television audiences, with, for example, 3.4 million viewers who followed the finish live on France 3. @CyclingimagesAlaphilippe can let his joy burst out. @CyclingimagesAmong the followers, many appreciate the Frenchman’s victory. @CyclingimagesHe did it! @CyclingimagesIt will take some time for Alaphilippe to realize the significance of his title. @CyclingimagesThe Frenchman does not forget to congratulate his teammates, as here with Rudy Molard and Julien Bernard in the background. @UCIThis is the jersey Alaphilippe will wear for a year. @CyclingimagesThe Frenchman is overcome with emotion. @CyclingimagesMany supporters are also delighted! @CyclingimagesJulian Alaphilippe thinks of his father, who passed away exactly three months before his title. @CyclingimagesListening to the Marseillaise. @CyclingimagesUnprecedented podium. @CyclingimagesThe three riders shone on the last Tour de France, each winning at least one stage. @UCIJulian Alaphilippe realizes his career dream. @UCIYes, I did it! @Eloise Mavian / Tornanti.ccVeni, vidi, vici! @Eloise Mavian / Tornanti.ccWe’ll have to get used to these new colors. @Francesco Rachello / Tornanti.cc
A podium that confirms youth’s dominance in world cycling. @ Eloise Mavian / Tornanti.cc
