Long in the shadow of media giants, Simon Yates reveals himself at the peak of his art by winning an emblematic victory on Mont-Dore during the 2025 Tour de France. A discreet climber, outstanding technician, and fascinating personality, his journey reflects a masterful lesson in resilience and humility. An in-depth portrait of an exceptional cyclist.
An Unexpected Triumph in the 2025 Tour de France
Simon Yates claimed victory on July 14, 2025, at the summit of Mont-Dore during the 10th stage of the Tour de France. He outpaced Thymen Arensman and Ben Healy, the latter donning the yellow jersey. Thus, the Briton from the Visma | Lease a Bike team returns to the spotlight, six years after his last victory in the Grande Boucle.
Yates was not expected to be the favorite for this stage. However, the race turned in his favor at the foot of the final climb. Ben Healy, long alone in the lead, saw his advantage melt away on the demanding slopes of Mont-Dore. Moreover, Arensman, despite being very attentive to his competitors’ moves, succumbed under Yates’ constant pressure. He launched his decisive attack three kilometers from the summit, revealing a keen sense of timing and impeccable effort management.
A Youth Marked by Effort and Discretion
Born on August 7, 1992, in Bury, Greater Manchester, Simon Philip Yates grew up in a modest family. Cycling quickly became a refuge and a family passion. This passion was inherited from his father, a victim of a serious road accident. Thus, very young, Simon and his twin brother Adam discovered their potential on the tracks of the Manchester velodrome.
At 18, Yates joined the British Olympic Academy and quickly distinguished himself with his exceptional athletic qualities. In 2010, during the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, he closely encountered Chris Froome, a future four-time Tour winner. In 2013, he affirmed his talent by winning the gold medal at the World Track Cycling Championships.
Professional Beginnings: Between Promises and Adversities
Turning professional in 2014 with Orica–GreenEDGE alongside his brother, Yates quickly displayed remarkable qualities in the mountains. He excelled in challenging races like the Tour of the Basque Country or the Critérium du Dauphiné. His consistent performances placed him among the best prospects.
However, in 2016, a suspension for the unintentional use of terbutaline temporarily halted his progress. Yates handled this delicate moment with calm and transparency, already illustrating his strength of character. He resumed competition without dodging any questions, an exemplary behavior praised by his peers.
Resilience bore fruit as early as 2017 when he won the best young rider classification in the Tour de France. The following year, he reached a peak with a brilliant victory in the Vuelta a España, definitively confirming his status as a great rider.
A Fine Analysis of a Climber with Singular Talent
Simon Yates excels in steep climbs thanks to his lightness and explosive power. His game is characterized by a subtle strategy, often preferring to wait for the ideal moment to launch his attacks. His effort management is methodical and patient, setting him apart from many more impulsive riders.
His calm, even introverted demeanor is deceptive: on the bike, he transforms into a formidable competitor, capable of violent accelerations that unsettle his opponents. Thus, his victories are often the result of excellent race reading rather than mere displays of strength.
An Exceptional Record for a Career Without Extravagance
The record of Simon Yates is eloquent: more than thirty professional victories, including several prestigious stages in the Giro, the Vuelta, and the Tour de France. In 2025, his victory in the Giro d’Italia definitively erases his past frustrations on Italian roads.
His recent arrival at Visma | Lease a Bike, in collaboration with Jonas Vingegaard, offers him new strategic perspectives. The complicity between the two riders energizes his career, allowing him to approach each competition with serenity.
A Discreet Personality Away from the Spotlight
Settled in Andorra since 2015, Simon Yates prefers rigorous preparation away from the media. His brother Adam, a pillar of the UAE team led by Tadej Pogačar, remains his confidant and privileged interlocutor. Thus, Yates cultivates his humility and discretion, characteristics that make him particularly appreciated in the peloton.
Mont-Dore Victory: A Symbol of Personal Revenge
Yates’ victory at Mont-Dore symbolizes more than just a stage win. It reflects a personal journey marked by perseverance and resilience. At 32, his keen sense of tactics and accumulated experience become his best allies. This success demonstrates his ability to handle pressure, analyze his opponents lucidly, and seize every opportunity with clarity.
Simon Yates, a Memorable Mark in Cycling History
Today, Simon Yates is recognized as one of the most respected climbers in the peloton. His trajectory, marked by ups and downs, perfectly illustrates the values of cycling: endurance, courage, and humility. His victory in the 2025 Tour is a reference for enthusiasts. They are fascinated by this discreet rider. Thanks to his determination and race intelligence, he has earned his place among the greatest.