Ben Healy's Subdued Season Opener: A Strategic Build-Up or Cause for Concern?
Irish cyclist Ben Healy, a seasoned World Tour rider with EF Education-EasyPost, has kicked off his fifth season with a low-key approach, participating in a couple of competitive races in France alongside teammate Darren Rafferty.
Despite not being a standout in the race finales, Healy expressed contentment with his performance, acknowledging his typical slow start to the season. He claimed to be 'kinda happy' with his 20th place finish at the Faun-Ardèche Classic (1.Pro), a challenging race with 3,400m of elevation gain, where he usually struggles.
The race saw a dominant performance by rising French talent Paul Seixas, who secured his second solo victory of the season, leaving the chasers in his wake.
Healy's teammate, Rafferty, played a supporting role, ensuring Healy's success before withdrawing. Meanwhile, Jamie Meehan, in his first full pro season, finished 61st.
The following day, at the Faun Drome Classic (1.Pro), Healy placed 44th, just over a minute behind the winner, Romain Grégoire. Grégoire's victory was a close call, as he and Jorgenson held off a large chase group in the final kilometer. Healy was part of this group but couldn't keep up with the pace on the climb.
But here's where it gets interesting: Last year, Healy had a similar start, finishing 103rd and 30th in these races before a remarkable 4th place at Strade Bianche, which ignited his successful 2025 season.
Healy is set to race Strade Bianche again next weekend, a true test of his early-season form. Is this strategic pacing or a sign of something more? Only time will tell.
What do you think? Is Healy's low-key start a cause for concern, or is he setting the stage for another remarkable season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
