A revolution threatens the future of Julian Alaphilippe

It has been in the air for several weeks, but discussions for a vision between Soudal-Quick Step and Jumbo-Visma are accelerating. Patrick Lefévère confirms for the first time that things are moving forward while specifying that Amazon could join this revolution. A thunderclap in the world of cycling which could have consequences for the future of Julian Alaphilippe.

It’s a bolt from the blue that could turn the world of cycling upside down. For several days, rumors concerning a vision between Soudal-Quick Step et Jumbo Visma are gaining momentum. Given the importance of these two teams in the peloton, it would be quite a bomb which could reshuffle the cards for many riders, and not the least.

Lefévère confirms discussions for the merger between Soudal-Quick Step and Jumbo-Visma

And this time, it is confirmed. In his traditional column in the Dutch-speaking Belgian daily The newspapaer, Patrick Lefévère confirmed discussions for a merger. The boss of the Soudal-Quick Step also commented on the arrival of Amazon as a possible partner of the Jumbo Visma. « I have no idea what they’re going to bring. The fact is that with three parties – Soudal, Quick-Step and Visma – everyone could find their place. With Amazon, a fourth party, it no longer works the same. To my knowledge, there was no mention of their arrival as of last week, and that could change the rules of the game », assures the Belgian.

What about the future of Julian Alaphilippe

And obviously, if the two teams merge, riders could pay the price. We will have to decide between the two squads which are full of talent. One thing is certain, it will be without Primoz Roglic. The winner of the Giro announced that he was leaving Jumbo Visma. For his part, Patrick Lefévère confirmed that “ the intention is obviously that Remco Evenepoel remains on board “. He could therefore team up with Jonas Vingegaard et Sepp kissrespectively winner of the Tour de France and some Vuelta. This could therefore leave little room for a certain Julian Alaphilippe who is coming out of a complicated season. Already relegated to the background by Remco Evenepoel, the Frenchman could also find himself in the same team as the winners of the last two Grand Tours. Without forgetting Wout van Aerta Classics specialist too or another Frenchman, the recent European champion Christophe Laporte. Very reassuring for Alaphilippe whose contract with the Soudal-Quick Step runs until 2024.