The spring Classics season has witnessed an electrifying display of talent, showcasing exceptional athletes such as Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel, along with unexpected victories like Mattias Skjelmose’s win at Amstel Gold. However, one standout performer emerging in this competitive arena is Ben Healy, a 24-year-old cyclist from Stourbridge, who is now proudly representing Ireland.

Racing for team EF Education-EasyPost, Healy has demonstrated remarkable consistency and tenacity, consistently seeking opportunities to attack in recent weeks. His distinctive appearance, complete with a beard, long hair, and earrings, makes his aggressive racing style even more memorable.

After finishing tenth at Amstel Gold, Healy took his performance to the next level, finishing fifth at La Fleche Wallonne and securing a third-place finish in the prestigious Liège-Bastogne-Liège. This marks his debut on the podium in one of cycling’s famed “Monuments.” He has also claimed a stage win at the Tour of the Basque Country and finished fourth at the Strade Bianche, signaling a significant upturn in his racing consistency and decision-making.

Reflecting on his growth, Healy stated, “I was a different rider two years ago. Now, I’m smarter and more experienced. I feel like I’m progressing every year.” His journey to the top has not been conventional, as he was initially pushed towards cycling by his father, discovering his passion for mountain biking, and joining the Team GB Olympic academy during his teenage years. Competing against the future Olympic champion Tom Pidcock, he later faced an abrupt exit from the program.

“It was like a kick in the teeth,” Healy remarked about being dropped from the academy. This experience propelled him to focus on road racing and switch allegiance to Ireland, a decision he now considers one of his best.

He made headlines at 18 as the youngest stage winner at the Tour de l’Avenir, further impressing with a solo victory at the „Baby” Giro d’Italia two years later. His debut season with EF Education-EasyPost in 2022 set the stage for his breakout year in 2023. With a fourth-place finish in Liège-Bastogne-Liège and a close second to Pogacar at Amstel Gold, Healy is solidifying his status in the cycling world.

His recent performances culminated in an exhilarating stage win at the Giro d’Italia, where he completed 207 kilometers solo after breaking away from the leading group. His transition from potential to achievement displays his growth as a formidable contender in major races.

Although his one-day race results weren’t as strong last year, Healy made an impression at the Tour de France with daring attacks that kept spectators on the edge of their seats, particularly during an ambitious solo effort on the 14th stage. He ultimately secured a combativity award, which is quickly becoming his signature trait. “I’m never afraid to race,” he asserts. “If there’s something to fight for, I’m always going to fight for it.”

With the Classics now behind him, Healy is focusing on preparations for a second Tour de France appearance, building on his impressive spring performance. Splitting his training between Girona and Andorra, Healy is enhancing his aerodynamics while learning to utilize his attacking instincts judiciously, as evidenced in his recent podium finish.

“We’ve seen so many times Tadej has this nuclear attack on the climbs. If you follow, you burn yourself,” Healy explains. “Our plan was to maintain a steady tempo.” As he continues to evolve in his racing strategies, Ben Healy’s future looks promising, making his journey in both one-day races and grand tours a compelling story to follow.