Anthony Delaplace
Anthony, do you have an announcement to make at the start of the season?
"Yes. I still have the same passion for my sport, I love what I do every day, but since last year I've been thinking about the end of my career. I asked myself the question in 2024, but I had a great season and made some great contributions to the team. So I've signed up for a sixteenth season in 2025, with plenty of desire and motivation, but this will be my last. I'll be leaving the professional peloton at the end of the year. I've made the career that suits me".
How would you sum up your almost sixteen years in the professional peloton?
"I have no regrets. I've fulfilled my dreams, which were firstly to become a professional rider and secondly to take part in the Tour de France. They've both been achieved. I was never a great champion. I've always been aware of my abilities. But as I always say, the important thing is to contribute to the team in your own way, with your own qualities. I've always given my all for the team, for its “well-being” by doing everything I can to help the teams managed by Emmanuel Hubert, and these last few seasons ARKEA-B&B HOTELS. I'm satisfied with what I've achieved in my career.
How do you feel about Emmanuel Hubert, your General Manager for twelve seasons?
"Emmanuel Hubert is my boss, my manager. I've only known two in my career, Emmanuel and Stéphane Heulot. I'm a loyal person and when things go well in life, I don't see any point in changing. I get attached to others, to good people. Emmanuel is one of them for me. He's the one who reached out to me, like Stéphane Heulot. With Emmanuel, the story lasted twelve wonderful years. He's my boss, but with him there's also a great deal of friendship. And I have a lot of respect for him, for everything he does for his staff and his riders."
