At just 27, Jasper Philipsen has made a name for himself as one of the best sprinters in the world. In addition to winning multiple stage victories at the Tour de France, he has also been featured on Netflix.
However, his true passion for the sport lies behind the podium pictures and high-stakes finishes. From those early days riding through Belgian backroads to the highs of 2024 and the crash that cut short his Tour de France in 2025, Philipsen explains his journey in this e-mail interview.
When was the first time you rode a bicycle?
I started riding when I was 12. Belgium has a strong cycling culture, and there are many top athletes in the country. As a child, I looked up to Belgian road cyclist Tom Boonen. When I reached the U17 and U19 categories, I realised I had real talent. After that, it became more than just a hobby to me; I aimed at a professional career.
When did you fully embrace your sprint identity? Was it during Stages 10, 13, and 16 of the Tour de France in 2024?
It wasn’t just 2024. Even in the preceding years, I was already focused on sprint stages and improving as a sprinter. This was always among my main goals during the Tour de France.
When you were at your peak in 2024, how did your training days look?
I trained in the morning and mid-afternoon during altitude camps with the team. The rest of the day was spent recovering, such as getting enough sleep and rest. Some days focused on climbing, while others were spent doing sprints or short, explosive efforts. To reach peak form, it was always a mix.
Netflix released a documentary series about you during that time. Did Tour de France: Unchained capture the real Jasper Philipsen?
With Netflix, it was tricky. We were just doing our jobs, which already came with a lot of stress. Taking an American approach, it crafted storylines and characters in the way it wanted. The experience wasn’t particularly enjoyable for me, but it is what it is.
What excites you about this year’s Singapore Criterium?
I love the atmosphere and the meet-and-greets give me the chance to connect with fans. The race is obviously the highlight, but everyone has a wonderful time. You’ve raced around the world.
What is your favourite location?
Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands. Besides lots of climbing and great weather, the roads are smooth and the views are breathtaking. It’s a beautiful place to train and ride.
If you weren’t leading the sprints, what other position would suit you?
I would make a good lead-out guy. Sprinting is something I understand, including when to move up, when to time it correctly, and how to position someone for victory. Supporting others with that knowledge could be beneficial.
Is there any advice you would like to share with young riders?
Keep your dream of becoming a professional alive. Invest in yourself fully. Make sure you surround yourself with people who believe in you. There will be tough times, a lot of them, but keep pushing, and most importantly, enjoy what you’re doing.
Your Tour de France record is strong. How did this year’s crash change things?
It was a big setback. In just three days, it was over. However, we did win the first two stages as a team, so that helped me keep a positive mindset. Even so, it wasn’t easy. I was stuck in bed for a long while. Getting through that period was challenging.
Despite triumphs and hardships, how do you stay motivated?
The passion I have for cycling keeps me going. It would be difficult without that. In addition, there are always new goals and targets. My eyes are always on the future because of that.
