After Julien Alaphilippe's departure from Sourdal-Quick Step was confirmed, his attention turned to his next team for 2025, with Tudor Pro Cycling considered his destination.

During the Giro d'Italia, La Gazzetta dello Sport first reported that a Swiss team backed by Rolex Group watch brand Tudor had expressed interest in signing the former French world champion.

RMC reported that Alaphilippe had made his decision, although no deal has yet been signed. 'I can't say more, but I know a little more,' Alaphilippe told the French sports channel before San Sebastian, where he finished second. 'My decision has been made and I will tell you about it soon. I haven't signed it yet, but it has been decided in my mind."

There has been no comment from Tudor Pro Cycling yet, but Cycling News reports that an announcement may be made in the next few days.

Tudor Pro Cycling, owned by Classics legend and Cycling News columnist Fabian Cancellara, will enter the UCI Continental Tour in 2019 and then in 2023, one year after Cancellara takes over as owner. jumped up to the UCI ProTeam level.

Alaphilippe is signed with Matteo Trentin, currently the team's leader in the UCI points standings and the team's most promising rider.

Tensions between Alaphilippe and Quick-Step manager Patrick Lefebvre were high after a series of comments criticizing his performance and demonizing his wife, Marion Luce.

Nevertheless, Lefebvre was eager to keep Alaphilippe on the team in 2025. Tudor Pro Cycling, however, was one of several teams that were in the running for Alaphilippe, with Total Energies also looking to sign the Frenchman. Along with Alaphilippe, Marc Hirsi (UAE Team Emirates) is also considered a prime target for Tudor Pro Cycling, and the two finished 1-2 in the Donostia San Sebastian Classicoa on Saturday. If these two join the 2025 team, they could form a very strong Classics duo.

If the Swiss team signs a Frenchman, Tudor Pro Cycling will get a wild card in the 2025 Tour de France.

Alaphilippe's move is one of the most watched cycling transfers for the 2025 season, along with possible moves for Joao Almeida and Remco Evenpoel.