TOM STEELS | Life of a Directeur Sportif

Join us for a gripping journey into the heart of professional cycling as we delve into the last three decades of pro racing and the world of sports directing.

From Tom’s excitement of joining the number one Classics team when racing pro to later becoming DS for the same team, discover the evolution of cycling, the challenges young athletes face, and the importance of mental toughness in this captivating conversation.

From the chaos of the Tour of Flanders to the relentless battlefields of Roubaix, we uncover the strategies, challenges, and split-second decisions that shape the outcome of these monumental races, the intense pressure, camaraderie, and occasional controversies that unfold behind the scenes.

Discover the untold stories of mechanics scrambling to find the riders' foul-weather clothing in the rain bag, spare wheels, the strategic game of supplying riders during crucial moments, and the delicate balance between following the rules and prioritizing rider safety and performance.

Gain insight into the human side of professional cycling as Tom reflects on the joys of victory, the frustrations of defeat, and the unwavering dedication to supporting riders through triumph and adversity.

Get ready to experience the thrill, tension, and exhilaration of cycling races like never before.

Take a seat inside the Soudal Quick-Step team car as we explore the dynamics during some of the most iconic races in cycling history.

Welcome inside the team car and the unseen drama of cycling races.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

00:00 Introduction

04:43 The Early Years, Tom’s Journey Into Cycling

13:59 Transforming Young Talented Riders into Champions

18:04 The Transition to DS

21:50 Studying the Race Course

24:59 Race Radio vs Moving on Instinct

26:11 Racing, Communication, Post-Race Briefing

39:02 Race Rain Bag Logistics

48:43 UCI Rules and Fines

59:29 Eddy Merckx

01:10:15 Ending

It's a fully packed and insightful episode with Tom Steels of Soudal Quick-Step.

– LINKS –

Tom Steels

Host: ⁠Soren Jensen⁠

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