“I got cramps. I couldn’t go on” – Julian Alaphilippe goes to the absolute limit in search of return to the top at Liège…

Julian Alaphilippe left everything on the road at Liège-Bastogne-Liège, pushing his body to the breaking point in a desperate bid to reclaim his place among cycling’s elite. The Frenchman, once the world champion and a perennial contender in the Ardennes classics, showed flashes of his old brilliance—but also the physical limits that have haunted him in recent seasons.

With just under 30 kilometers remaining, Alaphilippe launched a brave attack on the steep slopes of La Redoute, a move that stirred the crowd and momentarily shook up the lead group. His determination was unmistakable, a reminder of the panache that made him a fan favorite. But the effort soon took its toll. His cadence slowed, and as the peloton caught him, Alaphilippe grimaced in pain. Moments later, he dropped back, clearly in distress.

“I got cramps. I couldn’t go on,” he said at the finish, barely able to conceal his disappointment. “I gave everything, but my legs said no. It’s frustrating because I felt good all day, and I thought I had something special.”

For Alaphilippe, the 2025 edition of Liège was more than a race—it was a statement. After two difficult years marred by crashes and inconsistent form, he came to Belgium with a mission: to show he still belongs at the top. And for much of the day, he did. His team, Soudal–Quick-Step, rallied around him, setting a strong tempo and giving him the platform to shine.

Despite the setback, there was admiration from fans and rivals alike. “That was vintage Julian,” said one commentator. “It didn’t work out, but the heart and courage were all there.”

As the peloton rolled into Liège without him, Alaphilippe was left to reflect on a race that symbolized both promise and pain. He may not have won, but he reminded the world why he’s still one of the sport’s most electrifying figures.