Get ready to dive into the inspiring story of Magdeleine Vallieres, the new world champion cyclist who's taking the cycling world by storm!
For those who've been following EF Pro Cycling, you'll know Mags as the talented rider who's been making waves with her impressive pulls and room reviews. But here's where it gets controversial... many people around the globe are still asking, "Who is this Canadian cyclist?"
So, let's uncover the mystery and get to know the woman behind the rainbow jersey.
Meet Magdeleine Vallieres: The Rising Star of Cycling
Mags, as her teammates call her, is a 24-year-old Canadian from Sherbrooke, Québec. With a deep passion for cycling and a disciplined approach to her craft, she's quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.
But how did she get here? Let's find out through her own words in this exclusive interview.
1. Mags, tell us about yourself.
"I'm a cyclist through and through. My life revolves around this sport. I'm disciplined, I love my routines, and I thrive when surrounded by amazing people. I guess you could say I'm an intense person, but in a good way! I take care of myself, from early bedtime routines to stretching and healthy eating. I train hard, and I find structure comforting."
2. Your dream job?
"I'm living the dream right now. I can't imagine a better life than this."
3. How did you win the world championship?
"It was an incredible moment. We were in a small break, just three of us. On the final climb, I went all out and attacked. I gave it my all and didn't look back. I just kept pushing and pushing until I crossed the finish line."
4. What were your thoughts at the finish line?
"I was in disbelief. I thought, 'I can't believe this is happening.' I saw the 500-meter mark, and it started to sink in, but it still felt surreal. I was thinking about my teammate Kristen's win at the Olympics, and how focused she was. I wanted to celebrate, but I was so shocked that I just lifted my arms without thinking."
5. When did you know you had won?
"There was a steep part at the beginning, and I thought I might have made a mistake. But then I looked back, and I knew they weren't going to catch me. I had to keep going, and even at the finish line, I couldn't believe it. It was an incredible feeling."
6. What was the day like when you got your rainbow jersey?
"It was a bit chaotic! My flight was delayed, and I ended up in a different city due to protests. I arrived late, but seeing that jersey for the first time made it all worth it. It was a special moment."
7. Fame and attention... how do you feel about it?
"It's weird, to be honest. I'm not used to all this attention. I feel a bit overwhelmed, but I'm trying to embrace it. It's a privilege to be in this position, and I'm grateful for the support."
8. What messages have touched you the most?
"I've received so many wonderful messages, especially from young riders in Canada. They're inspired by my win, and that's an incredible feeling. I never realized I could have such an impact, but it's a powerful thing to know that I've helped others believe in themselves."
9. Any advice for aspiring cyclists?
"Trust the process and believe in yourself. It's all about hard work and passion."
10. What's your greatest strength?
"I surround myself with amazing people who believe in me. Their support and trust in me give me the confidence to believe in myself."
11. What's your biggest weakness?
"I used to lack confidence, but with all the support I've received, I'm starting to overcome that."
12. What keeps you motivated?
"Seeing others pursue their dreams and work hard inspires me. It makes me want to be the best version of myself."
13. What's your biggest fear?
"Disappointing people. I want to make sure I live up to the expectations and support I've been given."
14. How do you relax?
"I love reading a good book or watching TV. It helps me unwind and take my mind off the intense training."
15. What's your favorite time of day?
"When I'm out on my bike, riding. That's when I feel most alive and free."
16. Rest days... what do you do?
"I sleep a lot! I take naps, get massages, and try to catch up on studies. It's important to rest and recover."
17. Any favorite post-ride snacks?
"I love bread with peanut butter and fruit. Eggs are a must, and I can't resist a good sourdough bread. And corn - it's a versatile carb!"
18. Why corn?
"It's tasty, and you can make so many delicious things with it. Plus, it's a good energy source."
19. Any interesting hobbies?
"Apart from cycling, I enjoy reading, cooking, and learning new things. I'm always curious and eager to explore."
20. What's your favorite food to cook?
"Banana bread! It's a classic, and I love the smell of it baking."
21. Favorite food overall?
"Anything with corn! Polenta, cornbread - I can't get enough."
22. Three things you can't live without?
"My bike, my air fryer, and my phone."
23. Tea or coffee?
"Coffee, definitely."
24. Go-to order at a café?
"Cappuccino with oat milk. Oatly, of course!"
25. Favorite French saying?
"À bloc. It means 'all out' or 'full throttle.'"
26. Favorite color on the rainbow jersey?
"I love the red, as it reminds me of Canada, and the blue, which represents Québec. It's a beautiful combination."
27. Favorite clothing item?
"My new rainbow jersey. It's an honor to wear it."
28. Movie genre?
"Comedies. I love a good laugh."
29. Favorite author?
"Lucinda Riley. Her books are captivating."
30. Favorite app?
"WhatsApp and Spotify. They're my go-to apps."
31. Favorite flower?
"Orchids. They're beautiful and require a lot of care."
32. Sweet or savory?
"Savory. I prefer the taste of savory foods."
33. Cats or dogs?
"Cats, I think. They're independent and low-maintenance."
34. Any pets?
"Not personally, but my friends have cats, and I get to spend time with them."
35. Dream concert?
"I'd love to see Charlotte Cardin, a talented artist from Québec. Her music is amazing."
36. Current TV obsession?
"I'm rewatching an old high school drama with my sister. It's a guilty pleasure!"
37. Meaning behind your name?
"I was named after Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine, the Magdalen Islands. It's a beautiful place with delicious seafood."
38. Dream holiday destination?
"I'd love to explore more of Québec, especially the Gaspésie region. The mountains are calling!"
39. Last message sent?
"It was to my boyfriend, Cian. Just a random message asking him to call when he had time."
40. Any skills you wish you had?
"I wish I could dance, sing, or play ball sports better. I lack coordination, but I'm working on it!"
41. What's most important to you?
"The people around me - my friends, family, and teammates. They're my support system."
42. Bucket list items?
"I want to win an Ardennes classic, start my own business after cycling, and learn a new language."
Mags, it's been an honor to get to know you better. We can't wait to see what the future holds for you!
Magdeleine Vallieres
World Champion
Her cycling journey began at a young age, and it's been an incredible ride so far. From her first pro win in Mallorca to her rainbow jersey triumph in Kigali, she's proven herself as a winner and a valuable teammate.
Magdeleine's enthusiasm for cycling is infectious, and her dedication to the sport is inspiring. She's a rising star, and we can't wait to see her continue to shine on the international stage.
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