“Tadej Pogacar Mentioned Me Joining UAE – Jasper Philipsen Reveals He Was Nearly Persuaded to Leave Alpecin-Deceuninck by His Friend

Jasper Philipsen Reveals He Was Tempted by Pogacar’s UAE Offer, but Staying with Alpecin-Deceuninck Was the Right Move

Top sprinter Jasper Philipsen recently opened up about transfer rumors that almost saw him leave Alpecin-Deceuninck. Despite interest from other teams, including UAE Team Emirates, where his good friend Tadej Pogacar encouraged him to join, Philipsen decided staying put was the best choice for his career.

Speaking on the podcast Stamcafé Koers, the nine-time Tour de France stage winner expressed satisfaction with Alpecin-Deceuninck’s offer. “I am happy with the proposal that came, and I’m happy I could stay with the team,” he said, admitting the pull from Pogacar was real. “Yes, Tadej once said something about me coming to UAE, but he knows their team makes the decisions. It would be nice to ride with him again, but staying here made the most sense for me.”

Philipsen also highlighted the strong team dynamic at Alpecin-Deceuninck, particularly with world champion teammate Mathieu van der Poel. “Having someone like Mathieu as a leadout man is a huge privilege. Our relationship is good on and off the bike, and I consider him a friend,” he explained, emphasizing how their collaboration has fueled his success at the Tour de France.

Ultimately, Philipsen’s decision to stay with Alpecin-Deceuninck reflects his ambition for the future and confidence in the team’s support, especially as he continues to aim for success in major races like the Tour.