Clear words on the doping issue
Marcel Kittel doesn't think modern cycling is clean. The former sprint star spoke clearly about the current situation in the peloton. "I don't think cycling is clean now. Absolutely not," Kittel explained in the podcast "The Domestique Hotseat". This assessment by the 14-time Tour stage winner weighs heavily, as he himself has followed the development of the sport over the years. witnessed has. He describes the damage caused by the doping scandals in drastic terms. Cycling has had its leg cut off and the consequences are still being felt.
The 36-year-old observes the Changes in the peloton with a critical eye. He is particularly sceptical about the increased performance values and changed training methods. "I don't believe that cycling is clean now. Not at all. You would be very blind to the facts. You have to look at the sport honestly, even as a fan, and there will always be people who try to cheat the system. We just need to make sure that we really protect the progress that we've made and make sure that it's individual cases and not a widespread doping system like we had in the 1990s," he explains in the podcast. Kittel warns of the impact on young riders who are under enormous pressure. Expectations have exploded in the modern era, which could encourage problematic developments.
Marcel Kittel laments the loss of Parisian tradition
Kittel was also critical of other issues. The loss of the Champs-Élysées stage is particularly painful for Kittel. "A great tradition has disappeared," regretted the German, who celebrated four victories on the famous Parisian avenue. Paris smells different - like food, perfume and excitement. This unique atmosphere is now missing from the race calendar. For Kittel, the Tour organisers' decision to cancel the traditional finale marks a turning point in the history of the race.
The former professional sees fundamental changes in the Tour de France. The race no longer resembles the one he grew up with. Pure sprinters have fewer chances, as the route is becoming increasingly hilly. This development considerably reduces the opportunities for riders of his type.
Marcel Kittel criticises challenges in modern cycling
In the podcast, Marcel Kittel also critically analyses the changed conditions for sprinters. The Tour offers fewer pure sprint finishes, which makes it more difficult for speed specialists to survive. At the same time, nutrition and training culture have changed significantly since his active days. These developments have influenced the entire structure of the peloton.
The German speaks openly about the pressure of the culture of comparison. Young drivers are subject to enormous expectations that were unknown in previous generations. Social media and constant performance analyses are reinforcing this trend. Kittel warns of the psychological stress that can arise from this.
Return as a sprint coach
Marcel Kittel returns to the team as sprint coach Unibet Rose Rockets back to cycling. This new role enables him to pass on his knowledge to the next generation. The former professional brings with him experience from 14 Tour stage wins. His expertise in sprint tactics and positioning should help the team.
The collaboration with the team marks a new stage in Kittel's career. He can utilise his experience from the era of the great sprinter duels. His victories against Mark Cavendish in particular had a lasting impact on his career. These direct duels changed the course of his career decisively.
Criticism of current developments
Kittel expresses concern about the direction of modern cycling. The combination of increased performance requirements and reduced controls worries him. The German sees parallels to problematic phases in the history of cycling. His scepticism is based on many years of observing the scene. The former professional emphasises the importance of honest discussions about these topics. Silence does not help to solve the problems. Kittel calls for more transparency and stricter controls. This is the only way to regain trust in the sport.
Kristian Bauer
Editor
