Published on : 04/21/2026
Just take a look at Ion Izagirre’s recent races to understand what kind of rider he is. Whether at the GP Indurain, where he eventually dropped his rivals, or at the Tour of the Basque Country, where he was never far from Paul Seixas, Ion Izagirre is someone who goes all the way in his effort — a rider who never gives up. The Basque rider perfectly embodies the DNA of Team Cofidis. As the Ardennes Classics approach, he looked back in detail on his start to the season and his enjoyment of racing. Enjoy the read and have a great week!
Ion Izagirre: “We did a great job all together”
At 37, Ion Izagirre is enjoying a highly successful spring: 7th at Paris-Nice, winner of the GP Indurain, and 4th overall at the Tour of the Basque Country. His determination in every race is the best illustration of the fighting spirit shown by Team Cofidis this season. Ahead of the two major Ardennes Classics, the team leader reflected on his current form, his view of the team, and his almost brotherly relationship with Alex Aranburu.
You are racing in the Flemish Classics this week. What are your goals?
“We have La Flèche Wallonne tomorrow and Liège–Bastogne–Liège on Sunday. La Flèche Wallonne is a very explosive race that suits Alex Aranburu’s characteristics more, he can be a great rider for the finale. As for me, I’m focusing more on Liège–Bastogne–Liège. It’s a race I really like: I enjoy the course, its history… And I feel in very good shape. I think I can get a good result!”
“There is a real desire to do well”
The Basque block ended just over a week ago with your victory at the GP Indurain, Alex’s win at the Tour of the Basque Country, where you finished 4th overall… With a bit of hindsight, how did you experience these successes?
After the Tour of the Basque Country, I took some time with my family to reflect on what we achieved. I think we did a really great job all together, with the riders and the staff. We really wanted to deliver a great week and perform well in this very special race, which means a lot to us. Between the training camp in the Canary Islands with Alex, the preparation, and the work beforehand, we did everything to be ready.
How would you describe the team’s mindset?
It’s really very positive. You can feel that the goals are clear, that there is solidarity, and a real desire to do well. Since the start of the season, the momentum has been good, the results are there, and that has a major impact on how we approach each race. We’ll do everything we can to keep this momentum going!
“Alex Aranburu is like a brother to me”
On a personal level, you seem to be enjoying racing as much as ever…
Yes, I feel good. The confidence my teammates and the staff give me plays a big role. And physically, I feel very good too, when your legs are responding well, it helps your mind as well! I feel like I’ve found my level again and that I’m competitive. That helps me stay enthusiastic, enjoy myself, and give everything!
How would you describe your very strong bond with Alex Aranburu?
I’ve known him for a long time. He lives near me, and we have a very strong relationship. We spend a lot of time together in training, at camps, in races, but also during transfers and at the hotel. We’re on the same wavelength and don’t need much to understand each other. I think he’s a bit like a brother to me.
To wrap up, Ion, do your three daughters like or want to take up cycling?
For now, they don’t really like cycling. When we go for rides, they find it too hard and too tiring (laughs)! But if they want to do it, or if they want to practice any sport, I’ll always be there to support them.”