Just as cycling fans were gearing up for the 2025 Tour de France, a surprising twist has shaken up the roster.
Richard Carapaz, known for his fearless climbs and relentless energy, won’t be making an appearance this year.
The Olympic gold medalist and last year’s “King of the Mountains” had been expected to lead the EF Pro Cycling team — until a sudden illness forced him to pull out.
Illness Hits at the Worst Possible Time
According to a statement from EF Pro Cycling, Carapaz began experiencing sharp abdominal pain and a high fever while training in his home country of Ecuador last week.
After medical evaluation, doctors advised him to avoid any long-distance travel or racing for the time being.
That means the 32-year-old champion won’t be lining up for the Tour de France this year, which kicks off on July 5 — a bitter blow not just to his team, but to fans who were excited to see him push for another podium.
Team EF Reacts to the News
Jonathan Vaughters, the team’s sporting manager, didn’t hide his disappointment. “We’re all gutted for Richard,” he shared.
“He came out of the Giro d’Italia in amazing shape.
He sacrificed a lot to get there. To miss the Tour now — it really stings.”
Carapaz had placed third at the Giro just a few weeks ago, proving he was in top form.
Many were banking on him to carry that momentum into France and lead the team with his trademark grit.
A Champion’s Resume
Carapaz isn’t just any rider. He claimed Olympic gold in 2020, won the Giro d’Italia back in 2019, and stood out in last year’s Tour de France by winning the climbing and combativity classifications.
That’s no small feat — and it’s exactly why his absence is such a big deal.
Looking Ahead to the Vuelta a España
The EF team has confirmed that Carapaz will now take a few weeks to rest and fully recover.
They’re already setting their sights on the next big goal: the Vuelta a España, which kicks off on August 23.
According to the team, Carapaz’s new mission is crystal clear — to win the Vuelta.
While it’s not the Tour, the Vuelta is still one of the sport’s biggest challenges, and it could be the perfect platform for Carapaz to bounce back.