The organization of the Cycling Grands Prix and the broadcaster TVA Sports managed to get the Frenchwoman Marion Rousse as an analyst for the two races in Quebec.
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The television consultant and wife of double world champion Julian Alaphilippe has been commentating on the Tour de France with Laurent Jalabert on France Télévisions since 2017.
Jean Francois Racine
The former 2012 French road champion has also been director of the women’s Tour de France since the event’s return in 2022.
The Quebec accent
The ex-cyclist had to deal with some unusual restrictions.
“I was a little surprised when I was asked to work as a consultant for Canadian television. It’s an audience that I don’t necessarily know, and people don’t know me either. I have to understand the accent and it made me laugh a little! It is a challenge and a responsibility. I have to perform well. These are races that I like and I didn’t hesitate. “Usually I’m sitting in front of my TV and it’s midnight when I see the arrival!” said the 32-year-old young woman, who had already visited the province in 2017.
Quebec Mayor Bruno Marchand with Marion Rousse, former French cyclist, director of the women’s Tour de France and analyst for TVA Sports. Jean Francois Racine
Marion Rousse really appreciated Mayor Bruno Marchand’s kind words about women’s cycling.
Good surprise
“I was very happy to hear that. It was a nice little surprise. We really felt like it wasn’t a pre-written speech. It was natural and passionate. We want to give little girls careers that can see us on the side of the road or on TV. It’s super important for us,” she explained.
The Frenchwoman also has Michael Matthews in her sights as one of the favorites for the race in Quebec.
“Arnaud De Lie overcomes bumps well and can attack to follow the blows. Also Biniam Girmay. Tim Wellens isn’t so bad in the rain.”
In anticipation of broadcasting in cloudy weather, the organization has prepared a plan B with cameras on the ground in case storms disrupt the satellite signal.