etappist

An etappist is a professional cyclist who specializes in stage races. These athletes are known for their ability to perform consistently over multiple days of racing, often acting as domestiques (support riders) for their team leaders. Etappists are crucial to the success of a team in events like the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, and Vuelta a España. Their role involves a variety of tasks, including controlling the pace of the peloton, fetching water and food for leaders, protecting them from wind and crashes, and setting them up for crucial attacks or sprints. While not typically vying for the overall victory themselves, a strong etappist can significantly influence the race's outcome. Some etappists may also have ambitions for winning individual stages, particularly those that are hilly or involve breakaway opportunities. Their training is rigorous, focusing on endurance, recovery, and tactical awareness. The term "etappist" is derived from the French word "étape," meaning stage.