Two-time world champion Julian Alaphilippe recently faced a heated controversy regarding his leadership role within the Tudor Pro Cycling team for the 2025 season. Accusations suggested that his position within the Swiss team was secured through the influence of his partner, Marion Rousse, director of the Tour de France Femmes. Some critics even referred to Alaphilippe as “the one who hides behind his wife’s skirts,” prompting a scathing response from the French rider and an intervention from Rousse to clarify the situation.

In an interview relayed by L’Équipe , Alaphilippe did not mince his words: “It is insulting and unacceptable to reduce my career to rumors. My record speaks for itself.” The 32-year-old rider, who joined Tudor after a decade at Soudal-QuickStep, insisted that his recruitment is based on his six Tour de France stage wins, his world titles and his experience. “I chose Tudor for their ambitious project, not for personal stories,” he added.

Marion Rousse, faced with these accusations, also took to social media, denouncing the attacks as “misogynistic and unfounded.” “Julian is a champion, his talent needs no special treatment. I’m proud of him, not of these rumors,” she declared, emphasizing their family and professional commitment.

This controversy comes as Tudor Pro Cycling, led by Fabian Cancellara, is banking on Alaphilippe and Marc Hirschi aiming for a WorldTour spot by 2026. Fans on X are overwhelmingly supporting the pair with hashtags like #Alaphilippe and #TudorProCycling. As the 2025 season approaches, Alaphilippe seems determined to respond on the field, notably at Paris-Nice and, potentially, the Tour de France. What do you think of this controversy? Share your thoughts in the comments!