This Saturday the tenth edition of the Saitama Criterium was held in Japan, a race promoted by the organizers of the Tour de France since 2013. In that year, the British champion Chris Froome won the first edition of the event. Now, in 2024, aged 39, Froome returns to competition at a time when his status has changed dramatically.
“When I won the Saitama Criterium in 2014, I didn’t see it as a great achievement, but rather as the beginning of a story,” Froome recalls. The popularity that the Tour has garnered in Japan has surprised even the four-time winner of the French race, who said: “I was completely surprised by the number of fans and the way they experience the Tour.”
Froome has been fighting for a fifth Tour title for years, but admits the goal is no longer within his reach. However, he has not given up hope of competing again in 2025, when the Tour de France will start from Lille, and Froome will turn forty. “I haven’t succeeded in the last two years, but I don’t think it’s impossible to earn a place,” he says. Aware of his limitations, the Israel-Premier Tech cyclist is willing to contribute in other ways: “If I give it my all, I can still play a role, whether it’s winning a stage or helping teammates like Derek Gee.”
It should be remembered that the Tour de France will climb Mont Ventoux again in 2025, news that awakens special feelings in Froome. “Ventoux has a special place in my heart,” explains the cyclist, recalling his epic victory there in 2013, a triumph that gave him the certainty that he could arrive in Paris as a leader. In 2016 he once again experienced an unforgettable moment on that mountain, albeit in an unexpected way: a fall forced him to continue running on foot until a replacement bicycle was delivered to
In that stage where there was so much chaos due to a fallen motorbike, Nairo Quintana also found himself immersed in a situation in which he was picked up by another motorbike, unable to pass through the crowd, taking advantage of the situation. Later, both Froome and Quintana were forgiven for their fouls on that unusual day, when Froome crossed the finish line some time later, walking. “Now I can laugh about it,” recalls the Kenyan, who defines that act as an automatic and almost surreal reaction. “It didn’t make sense, but it was an instinctive moment that ultimately became historic,” he concludes, recalling one of the most emblematic moments of a career with many moments linked to Quintana.
Fernando Estupiñán
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Interview between the Time.news Editor and Cycling Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we are thrilled to have with us a cycling expert, Dr. Emily Carter, who specializes in sports performance and professional cycling. We’re diving into the world of cycling, particularly focusing on the recent Saitama Criterium where Chris Froome made a significant appearance. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Carter!
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to talk about such an exciting event in the cycling calendar.
Editor: Let’s start with Chris Froome. He won the inaugural Saitama Criterium back in 2014, and now, ten years later, he’s back to compete again. What do you think this return means for Froome and for the sport?
Dr. Carter: Froome’s return is monumental not just for him but also for fans of cycling worldwide. He’s a cycling legend, and his story exemplifies resilience in the face of challenges. Coming back at 39 is no small feat, particularly in such a physically demanding sport. It shows his commitment and passion, which can be incredibly inspiring for both current cyclists and young fans.
Editor: That’s an excellent point. Froome mentioned that his win in 2014 was the beginning of a story for him. Can you elaborate on what he might mean by that?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely! For Froome, winning the Saitama Criterium likely marked the moment he began to solidify his status on an international stage. It was a precursor to what would blossom into a remarkable career. Often, athletes reflect on early victories as milestones, but for Froome, it’s likely that it symbolizes not just achievements but the journey of growth, struggles, and the evolution of his cycling legacy.
Editor: Over the years, Froome has been pursuing a fifth Tour de France title, which he has acknowledged is now a challenging goal. However, he hasn’t ruled out competing again in 2025 when the Tour will start from Lille. What does this say about his mindset as an athlete?
Dr. Carter: Froome’s mindset is fascinating. Acknowledging his limitations while still harboring ambitions reflects a mature perspective. It shows he’s aware of the physical demands of the sport yet refuses to let age dictate his passion. His willingness to contribute to the team, even if not as a leader, signals an understanding of the evolving role of experienced cyclists. He’s adapting and finding his place, which is crucial in elite sports.
Editor: He mentioned Mont Ventoux, a location that holds special memories for him, both triumphant and tumultuous. Why do you think certain racing locations are so significant for athletes?
Dr. Carter: Mont Ventoux is often referred to as one of the most legendary climbs in cycling history. For athletes, certain locations can symbolize personal breakthroughs, epic battles, or even defining moments in their careers. Froome’s experiences there—his victory and the chaotic fall—serve as powerful reminders of both success and the unpredictability of the sport. Emotional connections to specific places can motivate athletes to push their limits.
Editor: It’s interesting to see how the emotional aspect intertwines with performance. Froome’s transition from being a title contender to a more supporting role also reflects the dynamics within professional teams, doesn’t it?
Dr. Carter: Definitely! Cycling is inherently a team sport, despite the individual accolades. Froome’s experience can be incredibly valuable to younger riders. The ability to mentor and assist teammates like Derek Gee shows his evolution as an athlete. It also highlights a broader trend within professional cycling, where experienced riders take on shepherding roles, contributing to developing talent in their teams.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights today! Froome’s journey is a remarkable narrative of resilience, evolution, and passion that resonates with many, on and off the bike.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! It’s wonderful to discuss such an inspiring figure in cycling. I look forward to seeing how his story continues to unfold.
Editor: And to our readers, thank you for joining us in this engaging conversation. Keep an eye on Chris Froome as he navigates new chapters in his cycling journey!