Neilson Powless and EF Education-EasyPost Shift Focus to Stage Wins at Tour de France

EF Education-EasyPost has unveiled a team of seasoned stage hunters and breakaway specialists for this year’s Tour de France, with American cyclist Neilson Powless aiming for a victory that he believes “would make my career feel complete.” The announcement follows the unfortunate withdrawal of their intended leader, Richard Carapaz, due to a severe gastrointestinal infection. Despite this setback, the team remains optimistic about their ‘Plan B,’ which centers on securing stage victories.

The squad’s eight-man lineup is dedicated to stage wins, as EF Education-EasyPost confirmed on Wednesday, emphasizing their strategy to “go on the attack as soon as the time is right.” Among the team is Ireland’s Ben Healy, known for his aggressive racing style, having claimed a notable victory in the Itzulia-Basque Country with a long-distance breakaway in April. Additionally, former Tour of Flanders champion Kasper Asgreen showcased his Grand Tour capabilities by winning a stage at the Giro d’Italia in May.

Riders to Watch

Michael Valgren, a rider with extensive experience and several Classics victories, will also be targeting transition stage wins in his eighth Tour de France. Meanwhile, Italy’s Vincenzo Albanese, who recently won a sprint stage at the Tour de Suisse, and Holland’s Marijn van den Berg are expected to excel in the initial week of the race.

However, it is Neilson Powless who stands out as a key contender. The American all-rounder has been striving for a stage win or a stint in the yellow jersey, a goal he has pursued “for years.” Powless has demonstrated his versatility across various terrains, with successes at events like the Clásica San Sebastián and Dwars door Vlaanderen. Yet, a Grand Tour stage win remains elusive for the 28-year-old.

“My best memory from the Tour de France so far was probably the cobblestone stage in 2022 when I realized I was fighting for the yellow jersey. I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since. It is so hard to get into that position,” Powless said. “That has been the thing that has motivated me for years now, just that feeling of being within reach of the yellow jersey, even if just for a day.”

Challenges and Motivations

Powless’s determination is echoed by his teammate Ben Healy, who expressed his desire to win a stage at the Tour de France. Reflecting on his debut experience last year, Healy remarked on its significance and the impact of losing Carapaz just before the race. “It’s a shame that we lost Richie in the run-up this time, because he was flying at the Giro, but I think the rest of us are ready to step up,” he stated.

Australian rider Harry Sweeny also shared his excitement about returning to the Tour after a four-year hiatus. Sweeny’s previous best result was a third-place finish in a stage into Nimes. “At my first Tour, I came close to winning a stage, and, to be honest, I don’t think I really realized what it would’ve meant to win,” Sweeny said. “Having worked so hard for the last four years to get back to the Tour, it gives me goosebumps to think about what it could mean to win there.”

EF Education-EasyPost’s 2025 Lineup

Neilson Powless (USA)
Vincenzo Albanese (Italy)
Kasper Asgreen (Denmark)
Alex Baudin (France)
Ben Healy (Ireland)
Harry Sweeny (Australia)
Michael Valgren (Denmark)
Marijn van den Berg (Holland)

The Tour de France remains the pinnacle of competitive cycling, and EF Education-EasyPost is poised to make a significant impact with their strategic focus on stage victories. As the race unfolds, these riders will aim to seize every opportunity to achieve their goals, with Powless and his teammates driven by the prospect of career-defining moments.

As the Tour progresses, cycling enthusiasts can expect thrilling performances from EF Education-EasyPost, as they navigate the challenging terrains and fierce competition. The team’s commitment to attacking at the right moment could very well lead to the stage wins they are so fervently pursuing.

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