It’s a small phrase in an interview, but perhaps the beginning of a revolution in cycling. Questioned on the sidelines of the presentation of a stage of the 2025 Tour de France in Montpellier, the owner of the Grande Boucle did not miss a question on the existence of two-speed cycling. And Christian Prudhomme didn’t try to kick into touch.
The 64-year-old leader also revealed that the UCI and the authorities are looking for a solution to this problem and that the salary cap could be one of them. “There is a reflection carried out by the UCI, with the organizers, the teams, on perhaps having a maximum budget. Because in fact, with capital arriving mainly from Arab countries, the game is a bit unbalanced. It’s an understatement to say it,” explained Christian Prudhomme in the columns of Free midday.
“Have good runners in every team”
An idea that is not new in cycling. David Lappartient, head of the UCI, even announced it as a “medium-term goal” in August 2018.
“The idea is that we can have good drivers in each of the teams. That we don’t have a concentration of resources in a single team. And make sure you have leaders in each team and the race is more interesting. This is the goal. It’s not about disturbing so-and-so. It’s right to say to yourself: if a team manages to buy the top ten riders in the world then there is no longer any interest in the sport. The overall salary cap does not prohibit paying an athlete very expensively, but in this case it will be necessary to adjust with the rest of the workforce. Well, then it’s a team strategy,” he explained at the time. 6 years later, the debate is still the same. Will the UCI go all the way this time?
What are the potential benefits of implementing a salary cap in professional cycling?
Interview Setting: The bustling headquarters of Time.news, where bicycles and tech intersect. The editor of Time.news sits down with cycling expert Dr. Michael Allan, a sports economist specializing in the economics of professional cycling.
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Allan! Thank you for joining us today. There’s been quite a buzz following Christian Prudhomme’s comments about the existence of two-speed cycling during the recent Tour de France stage presentation. What are your thoughts on this concept?
Dr. Allan: Thanks for having me! Prudhomme’s remarks are significant because they highlight an ongoing concern in professional cycling: inequality among teams and riders. The idea of two-speed cycling suggests a division between wealthier teams and those struggling financially, which can lead to a less competitive and more predictable sport.
Editor: Absolutely! He mentioned that the UCI and racing authorities are exploring solutions, including the potential for a salary cap. How do you see this impacting the sport?
Dr. Allan: Implementing a salary cap could fundamentally alter the competitive landscape. It has been successful in other sports, fostering a more even playing field where talent can shine regardless of financial backing. However, cycling’s unique structure—with its varied sponsorships and regional races—makes it challenging to establish a one-size-fits-all approach.
Editor: That’s a great point. Considering these challenges, what would be the key factors that organizers and the UCI would have to address when implementing such a cap?
Dr. Allan: First and foremost, transparency would be crucial. Teams must openly report their finances, ensuring compliance with the regulations. Additionally, defining what constitutes a “salary” can be complex, as many riders have performance bonuses, endorsements, and different contractual arrangements. ensuring that the cap doesn’t stifle the growth of teams or discourage new investors is essential.
Editor: So, in your view, could this initiative improve the overall appeal of cycling to new fans and sponsors?
Dr. Allan: Definitely! A more equitable competitive environment could attract a broader audience who appreciate close races and unpredictability. Sponsorship opportunities could likewise increase, as brands typically want to align themselves with competitive sports. If smaller teams can contend with the giants, the narrative becomes much more compelling.
Editor: Speaking of narratives, how do you think fans might react to the concept of a salary cap? Would they embrace it, or could it lead to pushback?
Dr. Allan: Fans are often divided on this issue. Some might champion the idea, seeing it as a way to ensure fairness and excitement in competitions. Others could view it as an infringement on teams’ financial autonomy or as diluting the sport’s elite status. The key would be effective communication from the UCI about the benefits of this cap, positioning it not as a restriction, but as a pathway to a more thrilling and equitable cycling future.
Editor: Intriguing! Lastly, what do you envision for the future of cycling if these changes are successfully implemented?
Dr. Allan: If done right, we could witness a renaissance in cycling. Imagine races where underdogs can pull off surprising victories, elevating the level of excitement during the Tour de France and beyond. With fresh talent emerging and a more dynamic race structure, both participation and viewership could soar. It could rejuvenate a sport rich in history and tradition, but that is often criticized for its accessibility and competitiveness.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Allan! Your insights are invaluable as we navigate this potential turning point in the cycling world. We look forward to seeing how this unfolds!
Dr. Allan: My pleasure! It’s an exciting time for cycling, and I’m eager to see how this conversation develops.
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End of Interview
This engaging conversation unpacks the implications that Prudhomme’s comments on two-speed cycling and the potential salary cap could have in reshaping the cycling landscape, ensuring a thoughtful examination of the future of the sport.