'It's just a dream': Julian Alaphilippe overcome with emotion as he becomes world champion

The Frenchman won with a trademark attack on the final climb to become the new wearer of the rainbow bands

Julian Alaphilippe wins the men's road race at Imola 2020 (Photo by Marco Bertorello/AFP via Getty Images)

(Image credit: AFP via Getty Images)

While Mads Pedersen became a well-liked custodian of the rainbow bands after his shock victory at Yorkshire 2019, Julian Alaphilippe is a rider who looks like the rainbow jersey was made especially for him.

You'll be hard-pressed to find anyone who begrudges him the victory either, the Frenchman unable to wear his heart anywhere but his sleeve, attacking with his trademark guile to leave rivals huffing his exhaust fumes all the way to the finish line on the Imola race track.

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1