Julien Bernard Excluded from Lidl-Trek's 2025 Tour de France Team
Cyclist Julien Bernard excluded from Lidl-Trek's Tour de France team; expresses disappointment but plans for future competitions.
Key Points
- • Julien Bernard not selected for Lidl-Trek's Tour de France team.
- • Team leaders are Jonathan Milan and Mattias Skjelmose.
- • Bernard on the reserve list and may replace a rider if needed.
- • Lenny Martinez to participate with Bahrain Victorious.
Julien Bernard, a cyclist hailing from Nevers, has been excluded from the Lidl-Trek team roster for the 2025 Tour de France, which begins on July 5 in Lille. Despite being on the pre-selection list and having competed strongly at the Critérium du Dauphiné and the French Championships, Bernard's name was absent from the final eight riders announced on June 30. The team has opted for Italian sprinter Jonathan Milan and Danish cyclist Mattias Skjelmose as their leaders for the race.
Bernard expressed disappointment in his exclusion, stating, "Forcément, il y a de la déception et de la tristesse de ne pas y être" (There is definitely disappointment and sadness not to be there). However, he respected the decision, which he acknowledged was based on broader team strategic considerations rather than just individual performance. Currently, Bernard is on the reserve list and may still participate should any riders withdraw before the race begins.
In light of this setback, he intends to train at altitude, preparing for future competitions, including the Tour of Spain set for August 23 to September 14. Meanwhile, Lenny Martinez will represent Bahrain Victorious in his second Tour de France, taking on a supportive role while also aiming for stage victories, as highlighted by the enthusiasm of the team's director, Roman Kreuziger.