In an uncompromising interview, Thomas Voeckler expresses his doubts about the cleanliness of modern cycling and denounces a disturbing silence around doping.
Thomas Voeckler may have swapped his bib for the microphone, he has lost none of his outspokenness. France Télévisions consultant granted an interview without filter to
Midi Libre Before the start of the big loop, where he openly wonders about the supposed cleanliness of modern cycling. “What worries me is that there is no one who is caught”he slips, before hitting stronger:
“I find it hard to believe that everyone has made a pact and said it: it is not good to cheat. »»
No name, but a doubt that hovers. For the old yellow jersey, the stratospheric performance seen in recent years are not trivial. And above all, the ambient silence disturbs it:
“It is good that there have been business, because I prefer a sport where we find that a sport where you do not find. »»
Even when he evokes Tadej Pogacar, the tone remains deliberately blurred. Voeckler admires, but wonders: “Pugacar, it is simply above the others. He revolutionizes the bicycle a little. »» Before qualifying immediately: “I am not saying that it is clean, or that it is doped. I’m not going to take the lead with that. »» A skillful way of not asserting anything while sowing doubt.
“I’m afraid”
Technology, too, takes it for its grade. Huts, power sensors, millimeter racing plans: Voeckler does not see progress there, but a machine to stifle the plume. “It is harder today to thwart the plans of large teams”he regrets. He, the 2011 adventurer, no longer recognizes himself in this cycling.
As for the French chances, no need to linger with illusions.
“I’m afraid”he admits without detour. The names of Alaphilippe, Grégoire or Vauquelin are cited, but without conviction. The verdict falls, bitter: “If the French do not win, that does not mean that they were not good. »»
