EF Pro Cycling’s Carapaz Takes the Lead in the Tour de France
EF Pro Cycling’s Richard Carapaz has taken the lead in the Tour de France, marking a significant comeback for the Ecuadorian cyclist. Carapaz, who signed with EF Pro Cycling in 2023, has had a tumultuous start to the season, including a crash in the first stage of the Tour and a dispute with the Ecuadorian Cycling Federation that prevented him from defending his Olympic crown.
However, Carapaz has bounced back with a series of strong performances, including a win in the Ecuadorian time trial championship, the queen stage of Romandy, and now, the first stage of the Tour de France. He is the first Ecuadorian to lead the Tour de France, and his victory has sparked widespread excitement in his home country.
Carapaz’s Comeback
Carapaz’s manager, Jonathan Vaughters, acknowledged the pressure Carapaz has faced in his decision to sign with EF Pro Cycling, saying, "I have risked everything with Carapaz. I have a lot of faith in him."
Carapaz himself said, "It means a lot to me. I’ve worked hard for this moment. It means a lot to my country as well. There are only a few Ecuadorians in the history of the World Tour and I hope this will help increase the number of fans of cycling."
Defending the Jersey
Carapaz now faces the challenge of defending his yellow jersey in the upcoming stages of the Tour de France. "We have a tough stage to defend the jersey," he said. "Every day I have felt better and now I hope to defend him. This year has been complicated, but we have tried to get there in the best way possible. I will try to fight with them and if it cannot be, I will try to be the best of humans."
EF Pro Cycling’s New Leader
Carapaz’s victory marks a significant milestone for EF Pro Cycling, which has struggled financially in recent years. With Carapaz at the helm, the team is looking to make a stronger push in the World Tour.
"This year has been complicated, but we have tried to get there in the best way possible," Vaughters said. "I will try to fight with them and if it cannot be, I will try to be the best of humans."
For Carapaz, the victory is a testament to his hard work and dedication. "I have a lot of faith in him," Vaughters said. "He has risked everything with Carapaz."
With Carapaz leading the way, EF Pro Cycling is looking to make a strong statement in the Tour de France.