Sivakov Shines with 2nd Place at Grand Prix Cycliste Québec

The late part of the cycling season often brings thrilling one-day races, and this year’s Canadian block of Classics began in Québec with a contest full of speed, strategy, and determination. The Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec, held on the scenic east coast of Canada, gave fans plenty of action. It ended with French star Julian Alaphilippe of Tudor Pro Cycling claiming a strong victory. Right behind him, UAE Team Emirates-XRG rider Pavel Sivakov showed his power and race sense by finishing in second place, after a long day of hard racing.

This race was the first of two back-to-back Canadian events, with the second one scheduled to take place in Montréal. Together, they form a unique part of the cycling calendar where riders battle it out on North American roads before heading back to Europe to close their seasons.

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How the Race Unfolded

The Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec is known for its challenging course. Riders face repeating laps of a circuit that features tough climbs, sharp turns, and fast descents. It’s not just about who has the strongest legs, but also about who can manage their energy, time their attacks, and position themselves in the right place during key moments.

From the very start, the pace was steady, with smaller breakaway groups testing the waters. The peloton, the main bunch of riders, allowed them some freedom but kept the gap under control. As the laps counted down, the intensity grew, and the big names began to show themselves.

Julian Alaphilippe, already a two-time world champion, has always been known for his attacking style and explosive finishing power. On Friday evening, he once again proved why he is one of the most exciting riders in the peloton. On the final climb toward the finish line, he made his decisive move, surging away at just the right moment.

Sivakov’s Strong Ride

While Alaphilippe pushed forward, Pavel Sivakov was not far behind. Riding for UAE Team Emirates-XRG, Sivakov displayed excellent race awareness. He positioned himself within an elite group of riders who had the strength to challenge for the podium.

When Alaphilippe launched his attack on the lower slopes of the last climb, Sivakov knew he had to respond. Though he couldn’t quite match the Frenchman’s explosive acceleration, he held his ground and fought bravely for the remaining spots.

In the end, it came down to a battle between Sivakov and Alberto Bettiol of XDS Astana Team for second place. After more than five hours of racing, Sivakov dug deep, showing grit and determination to cross the line ahead of Bettiol and secure the runner-up position.

This second-place finish was a valuable result for Sivakov, not only for his team but also for his confidence heading into the next race in Montréal.

Alaphilippe’s Victory

Alaphilippe’s win in Québec was not just another victory—it was a statement. After facing ups and downs in recent seasons, he reminded the cycling world of his class. Timing his effort perfectly, he showed once again how dangerous he can be when the road rises in the final kilometers.

His race-winning move was decisive, and once he crossed the finish line, it was clear that no one had the legs to catch him. This victory added another prestigious success to his career and brought energy to his Tudor Pro Cycling team.

The Role of Tadej Pogačar

While the spotlight was on Alaphilippe and Sivakov at the finish, another big name made his presence felt during the race—current world champion Tadej Pogačar. Returning to competition after the Tour de France, Pogačar used the Québec race as an opportunity to test his form and shake off the rust before Montréal.

He launched several attacking moves during the course, showing fans that he is not just easing back into competition but is fully ready to fight. Even though he did not contest the final sprint for the podium, his performance was a clear sign that he will be one to watch in Montréal.

A Test Before Montréal

The Canadian races are special on the cycling calendar. Unlike many European one-day Classics, they take place far from the usual racing grounds, bringing the sport closer to fans in North America. Québec and Montréal have built a reputation for hosting top-quality events that attract world-class riders.

For many cyclists, these races are also an important preparation for the World Championships or other late-season goals. The demanding circuits provide a perfect test of fitness, tactics, and teamwork.

For Sivakov, his second-place finish in Québec will serve as both motivation and proof of his good form. With Montréal coming up, he will hope to build on this momentum and perhaps aim for victory. For Pogačar, it’s a chance to measure himself against rivals and fine-tune his racing shape. And for Alaphilippe, the win has already set the tone, giving him confidence heading into the next challenges.

Why This Race Matters

For casual fans, it might just seem like another bike race. But for the riders, these Canadian Classics are more than just warm-ups. They carry prestige and are part of the UCI WorldTour, the highest level of professional cycling. Winning here is not easy—it requires strength, smart decisions, and a little bit of luck.

Moreover, these races give teams the chance to show their sponsors on an international stage, especially in a market like North America where cycling continues to grow. For fans, it’s a rare chance to see some of the world’s biggest stars racing outside of Europe.

As the peloton moves on to Montréal, excitement is building. The Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal is known to be even tougher than Québec, with longer climbs and a course that truly tests endurance. Riders who performed well in Québec, like Alaphilippe, Sivakov, and Pogačar, will carry momentum into the next race.

Cycling fans can expect more fireworks, more daring attacks, and another thrilling battle to the finish. Whether Sivakov can go one step further, whether Alaphilippe can double up, or whether Pogačar will rise to the top—it’s all set to be decided on the streets of Montréal.

The Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec delivered everything fans hoped for: high-speed action, tactical battles, and a thrilling finish. Julian Alaphilippe claimed a brilliant victory, showing his class as a two-time world champion. Pavel Sivakov rode with determination to secure second place, while Alberto Bettiol rounded out the podium.

Meanwhile, world champion Tadej Pogačar made his presence felt with a series of attacks, hinting at what could come in Montréal.

As the cycling season heads into its final stretch, the Canadian block of races has once again proven to be an exciting showcase of talent, strategy, and heart. Fans now turn their eyes to Montréal, where the next chapter of this story will be written.